Childhood obesity can precipitate a host of childhood development and health issues, with foot pain being high on the list. A child carrying extra weight is more prone to developing flat feet, calf or arch pain, stress fractures, and problems with the heel such as plantar fasciitis, hairline fissures, and inflammation where the growth plate and Achilles tendon meet (Sever’s disease). Some children may have foot conditions they inherited or were born with, which can be exacerbated by excess weight. However, losing weight can be difficult for obese children because physical activity can make their foot pain worse, making regular exercise difficult or even impossible. A podiatrist may be able to help with orthotics and other strategies to relieve foot pain, correct alignment, and treat any underlying foot or ankle disorders.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
- Make sure their shoes fit properly
- Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
- Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
- Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
- Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
- Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
- Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
- Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, Skaneateles, Oswego, and Cicero, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.