Caring for your child’s feet is essential to supporting their overall development, especially as their feet grow rapidly during the early years. Foot bones begin to develop in infancy and continue forming into early childhood, which is why proper care and attention to their feet are so important. Allowing your child to move freely, whether by wiggling their toes or walking barefoot indoors, helps strengthen their muscles and promotes healthy foot development. It is important to regularly check your child’s feet for any signs of swelling, sores, or ingrown toenails, and ensure that their shoes fit properly to prevent discomfort or deformities. If your child complains of foot pain, limps, or shows any signs of uneven or unusual gait, it may indicate an underlying issue that needs attention. A podiatrist can provide expert guidance, examine your child’s feet, and recommend appropriate treatment. If your child is exhibiting foot problems, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Richard T. Bauer of Summit Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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 our office located in Latham, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
