Pediatric Foot Care Info By Our Specialists In Albuquerque And Santa Fe

What is Pediatric Foot Care?

Pediatric foot care is a specialized field of podiatry focused on diagnosing and treating foot and ankle conditions in toddlers, children, and teenagers. While they experience similar foot problems as adults, their symptoms and treatment approaches differ due to their growing bodies.

Foot problems are especially common in children who participate in sports or are highly active. If your child frequently complains about foot or ankle discomfort, a podiatric evaluation is recommended.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when the nail grows into the surrounding soft tissue, leading to pain, redness, and potential infection. While many cases resolve with conservative care, professional treatment is crucial for children with diabetes or circulatory issues.

Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are small, rough, skin-colored bumps that appear on the soles of the feet due to the human papillomavirus (HPV). These warts are contagious and commonly spread in public places like swimming pools and locker rooms. Encouraging your child to wear protective footwear in communal areas can help reduce the risk of infection.

Flat Feet

Flat feet occur when a child’s foot lacks a natural arch. While many children outgrow this condition, persistent pain or difficulty walking may require intervention. Over-the-counter arch supports or custom orthotics can help improve pronation and relieve discomfort. Recent studies suggest that proper footwear and physical therapy can significantly aid in developing better foot mechanics and prevent long-term issues.

Heel Pain

Heel pain in children often results from tight calf muscles and Achilles tendons during growth spurts, placing stress on the heel bone. Conditions such as Sever’s disease (calcaneal apophysitis) are common in physically active children. Treatment may include stretching exercises, supportive footwear, and temporary activity modification to reduce stress on the heel.

To diagnose pediatric foot conditions, our podiatrists will:

• Conduct a thorough physical examination of the foot and ankle.

• Review your child’s medical history and symptoms.

• Observe their gait and posture.

• Use imaging tests such as X-rays if necessary.

After diagnosis, a customized treatment plan is developed, incorporating the latest advancements in pediatric foot care, including conservative treatments and, in rare cases, surgical intervention.

Most pediatric foot problems can be managed with non-invasive treatments, including:

• Supportive Footwear: A stable shoe with a firm sole and slight heel rise is recommended. Ideal options include most stable tennis shoes, hiking shoes, and even cowboy boots. Studies have shown that proper footwear plays a crucial role in preventing foot pain and injuries in children.

• Arch Supports: Over-the-counter arch supports, available at local running stores, provide additional stability and comfort. We recommend visiting in-person to Heart and Sole Sports.

• Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Targeted exercises can alleviate tension in the foot and lower leg muscles, reducing pain and improving mobility.

• In-Office Procedures: For persistent conditions, minor procedures such as ingrown toenail removal may be necessary.

When is Surgery Needed?

Surgical intervention for pediatric foot conditions is rare, with less than 1-2% of symptomatic pediatric flatfoot cases requiring surgery. If necessary, we use motion-preserving procedures that maintain stability while allowing for normal foot function. Surgery is only considered if pain significantly limits your child’s daily activities and conservative treatments have been unsuccessful.

• Encourage your child to wear properly fitting shoes with good arch support.

• Teach them to practice proper foot hygiene to prevent infections.

• Monitor for any persistent complaints of pain or discomfort.

• Avoid prolonged barefoot walking on hard surfaces to prevent strain on developing feet.

• Ensure regular foot check-ups, especially if they participate in high-impact sports.

Schedule a Consultation

If your child is experiencing foot pain or discomfort, early intervention is key to preventing long-term issues. Contact Albuquerque Associated Podiatrists today to schedule an evaluation by calling our office at 505-247-4164 or booking an appointment online. We are available for same-day appointments in Albuquerque and Santa Fe.