Foot Problems in Kids: Things Parents Should Know

Kids' feet change rapidly, especially during their first 10 years of life. Development is typically normal but there are several red flags that indicate problems benefiting from early evaluation.

While growing pains are common, take note of how your child walks, runs, and complains of pain or discomfort.

Foot Development in Children

Infants and toddlers often appear to have flat feet. During early development, fat pads and soft tissues cover the arch. As muscles strengthen and ligaments tighten, the arch becomes more defined.

Children develop arches anywhere between the ages of 3-6 years old. Trouble walking or persistent imbalance accompanied by pain could indicate a structural abnormality that should be addressed.

Gait Analysis

There are several things you can look for to determine abnormalities in your child’s walking patterns. Children should walk with even weight distribution and a smooth, rhythmic pattern. Periods of toe walking are normal in young children.

If your child persistently walks on their toes, drags one foot, or appears to only use one side of their body, there may be an underlying condition causing muscle weakness or joint instability.

Take short videos of your child walking and running to show your clinician during evaluation.

Structural Differences

Many children develop differences in foot structure that cause a parent to worry. Flatfoot is one of the most common concerns for parents and tends to improve with age. Some children have naturally high arches or fail to develop a visible arch.

Toeing in, otherwise known as pigeon toes, and out toeing are other variations that occur during childhood. Although most cases resolve over time, parents should monitor these abnormalities to ensure they do not persist or cause pain.

In Toeing vs Out Toeing

When children toe into their shoes while walking, they are said to have toes. The exact opposite is true for out toeing. There are many causes of atypical gait, including hip internal/external rotation and structure of the foot.

Some children’s feet outgrow these tendencies as the rest of their bones strengthen. Tight shoes can exacerbate these symptoms. When they are caused by something other than footwear, they may improve with stretching, orthotics, or remain unchanged.

Kids and Heel Pain

Active children are prone to heel pain due to injury and overuse. Sever’s disease, irritation to the growth plate at the back of the heel, is very common. Kids are likely to experience swelling and pain during growth spurts.

Symptoms are typically worse with activities that involve running and jumping. After periods of rest, stretching, and wearing shoes with good support, heel pain in children usually resolves on its own. If your child complains of heel pain that causes limping, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention.

Warts and Ingrown Toenails

Plantar warts are small growths on the bottom of feet caused by virus. They can be painful when walking and require treatment. Over the counter medications are typically used to treat plantar warts, but your clinician can provide additional therapies.

Ingrown toenails occur when nails begin to dig into surrounding skin. This can occur if toenails are cut too short or if shoes are too tight. If there is redness, swelling, or drainage from the nail bed, it is important to have it checked by your clinician.

Shoes and Kids’ Feet

Children need shoes that offer stability and support without limiting foot movement. Parents should frequently check the fit of their kids shoes since children’s feet can grow very quickly.

A shoe with a wide toe box and breathable materials is ideal. Make sure shoes are not too big and cause your child to trip, but have enough room to wiggle their toes. The heel of the shoe should also fit snugly against the back of the foot.

When to Seek Care

There are certain symptoms that should never be ignored. If your child limps consistently, refuses to put weight on a leg, or has swelling that doesn’t improve after a couple days, something may be wrong.

Additionally, if your child develops severe pain after injuring their foot or foot becomes visibly deformed, contact your clinician. Some neurological symptoms, such as numbness, should also be addressed immediately.

Kids and Foot Problems at Wasatch Foot & Ankle Institute

Your child doesn’t have to suffer from foot pain! Help prevent potential injuries and deformation by monitoring their feet as they grow. Kids who are active, play on their feet, and maintain healthy habits should have healthy feet.

Pay attention to the way your child walks or runs. Take notice if they complain of pain in one area repeatedly. Parents have the ability to detect problems before they become serious.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What are some common foot problems in children?

A: Common foot problems in children include flat feet, plantar warts, Sever’s disease, ingrown toenails, in toeing, and out toeing. Developmental abnormalities are typically normal but should be evaluated if they persist or cause your child discomfort.

Q2: My child has flat feet. When should I be concerned?

A: Flat feet are normal in children under the age of 3. As your child’s arch begins to develop, the foot will appear less flat. Parents should be concerned if their child’s feet cause pain or fatigue after walking or if the feet appear very uneven.

Q3: Do kids normally toe walk?

A: Kids commonly toe-walk when they first learn how to walk. Toe walking becomes a concern if it persists past the age of 3 or causes your child to fall frequently.

Q4: Why do kids get heel pain?

A: Heel pain is usually caused by stress to the growth plate or severe disease. Heel pain can also occur due to injury. If your child complains of heel pain after jumping or running, encourage them to rest and stretch their calves.

Q5: At what age should my child see a foot specialist?

A: Pediatric patients should be seen by a foot specialist if they have pain, refuse to bear weight, limp, swell after an injury, or have visible deformity. Your child should also be seen if they have neurological symptoms such as numbness or weakness.