As babies grow and begin to walk, their gait may at first seem awkward while developing strength and learning to maintain their balance. By about 18 months, parents may wish to watch their child’s gait and notice any problems that may need attention. Common foot problems in children are bow legs, knock knees, and flat feet. Other potential foot problems include in-toeing, out-toeing, and tiptoe walking. Many of these tendencies are normal in toddlers and often self-correct between the ages of 6 and 8 years old. One of the best ways to keep your child’s foot development on track is by providing proper footwear. It is essential that shoes and socks are the correct sizes. A child’s foot grows rapidly, which may mean replacing shoes and socks often. For more information on the common foot problems of children, it is suggested that you consult 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 one of our podiatrists of Palm Beach Foot & Ankle. 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 our offices located in Boynton Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, and West Palm Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
