Pediatric Foot and Ankle
At Ankle and Foot Care, we understand the importance of early diagnosis and treatment for pediatric foot and ankle conditions. Proper care during growth can prevent long-term complications and ensure your child’s feet are healthy and strong. Here’s what you need to know about common pediatric foot and ankle issues.
Common Pediatric Foot and Ankle Conditions
Sever’s Disease
Description: A common growth plate condition affecting active children during growth spurts. It occurs when the heel’s growth plate becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress.
Symptoms: Heel pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest.
Treatment: Rest, ice, heel cushions, custom orthotics, stretching exercises, and supportive footwear.
Growth Plate Injuries
Description: Trauma to the growth plates in the foot or ankle, which can impact bone development if not treated promptly.
Symptoms: Pain, swelling, tenderness, and difficulty bearing weight.
Treatment: Immobilization, physical therapy, or surgical intervention in severe cases.
Flat Feet
Description: A condition where the arches of the feet are low or absent. While it is often normal in young children, persistent flat feet can cause pain or instability.
Symptoms: Foot pain, fatigue, or difficulty walking.
Treatment: Supportive shoes, custom orthotics, and physical therapy.
High Arches
Description: Excessively high arches can lead to foot instability and increased pressure on the heel and ball of the foot.
Symptoms: Pain, calluses, or difficulty finding properly fitting shoes.
Treatment: Cushioned insoles, custom orthotics, and strengthening exercises.
Toe Walking
Description: A condition where a child walks on their toes instead of using a heel-to-toe gait. It can be habitual or related to underlying issues like tight calf muscles or neurological conditions.
Symptoms: Walking on tiptoes beyond the toddler years.
Treatment: Stretching exercises, physical therapy, or, in some cases, bracing or casting.
Warts
Description: Caused by a viral infection (human papillomavirus or HPV), warts are small growths on the skin that commonly appear on the soles of the feet (plantar warts).
Symptoms: Hard, grainy growths on the foot, often with a small black dot (clotted blood vessels), and pain when walking or standing.
Treatment: Laser therapy, topical medications, or minor surgical removal.
Ingrown Toenails
Description: Occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain and inflammation.
Symptoms: Redness, swelling, tenderness, and sometimes infection around the affected nail.
Treatment: Soaking the foot, proper nail trimming, antibiotic treatment for infections, and in severe cases, partial or full nail removal.
Why Early Intervention Matters
- Prevents Long-Term Issues: Early treatment can prevent deformities, pain, or mobility problems as the child grows.
- Improves Mobility: Proper care ensures your child can stay active and pain-free.
- Supports Healthy Development: Addresses biomechanical issues to promote proper growth and alignment.
Diagnosis and Treatment at Ankle and Foot Care
Our team specializes in diagnosing and treating pediatric foot and ankle conditions with:
- Comprehensive Evaluations: Physical exams and diagnostic imaging to assess your child’s condition.
- Customized Treatment Plans: Tailored approaches to meet your child’s specific needs, including orthotics, physical therapy, or surgical options when necessary.
- Family Education: Guidance on at-home care, exercises, and preventive measures.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If your child is experiencing foot or ankle issues, don’t wait to seek care. Schedule an appointment at Ankle and Foot Care to ensure your child’s feet stay healthy and strong throughout their development.