Common Foot Conditions in Children
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Our children’s feet may not get the same level of attention such as taking care of their eyes or teeth. Foot conditions is children are harder to detect because they might have a harder time verbalizing how they feel or parents simply dismiss them as growing pains.
Pain and discomfort in the feet is not normal and is a clear indication that something’s wrong or an injury has occurred. While most foot pain in children usually goes away in matter of hours, those that persist for more than a day should be consult a podiatrist.
Signs and Symptoms of possible foot problems in Children:
Pain when walking, jumping or running
Swelling
Feet that tire easily
Abnormal skin growths
Skin discoloration
Sudden change in gait
Stiffness in the feet
Decrease in physical activity
Common Foot Conditions in Children:
Flatfoot is normal among children but usually disappears upon reaching the age of 5. The arch appears once the foot structures have fully developed. Children and even adults with flat feet usually don’t exhibit any pains or symptoms. A child with flat feet may have problems in joining sports activities at school. It can cause pain or discomfort when running or standing for long periods of time. It can also cause children to get tired easily as the foot is unable to support their weight properly.
Plantar Wart – warts are abnormal skin growths that can grow anywhere on the foot. It is caused by the human papilloma virus. This is also responsible for all wart growths in the body. Children are at high risk for developing plant warts. Pain is felt when the plantar wart grows deep into the skin causing pressure to surrounding tissues.
Calcaneal Apophysitis or Sever’s Disease – is a condition that affects the heel’s growth plate. This happens when too much pressure is placed on the developing heel. Children who participate in strenuous physical activities at school or young athletes are high risk candidates for developing this condition.
Ingrown Toenails – this develops as the outer side edges of the nails curve inward. It can be caused by trimming the toenails too short especially at the sides. Toenails should be cut straight across. An infection can develop when the toenails grow deep into the sides causing a wound or skin opening.
Early diagnosis makes for easier treatments. If you feel that your child is suffering from a toe condition, a visit to a podiatrist is advised. Here at The Texas Foot Specialists, Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum provide expert and specialized care to address all of your foot and ankle needs. From conservative to advanced surgical treatments, you can always count on us for quality and compassionate care. Contact us online to make an appointment at one of our conveniently located offices in Sugar Land, Pasadena or Houston.