CHILDREN'S FEET
Expert Podiatry Care for Children’s Feet
We specialize in treating common and complex foot issues in children. Here we cover a range of pediatric services, from early assessments to advanced care for growing feet. Learn about our approach to pediatric care, gait & balance assessments, and treatments for conditions like intoeing (pigeon-toed) and outtoeing. Explore other specialized podiatry services designed to support your child’s foot health as they grow
Pediatric Care
Pediatric Foot Care: Helping Your Child’s Feet Stay Healthy
Taking care of your child’s feet is essential for their overall health and development. Since children’s feet grow quickly, they are constantly changing, and issues can arise as they develop. By paying attention to your child’s foot health early on, you can help prevent problems in the future and ensure they’re comfortable, active, and ready to take on the world.
Common Foot Issues in Children
There are several common foot conditions that children can experience:
Flat feet: It’s common for babies and toddlers to have flat feet, but if this persists as they get older, it could lead to walking or posture issues that may require attention.
Ingrown toenails: If the edges of a toenail grow into the skin, it can be painful and lead to redness and infection if not treated.
Plantar warts: These warts appear on the soles of the feet and are often caused by walking barefoot in public places like pools or playgrounds.
Growing Pains: Children may feel aches or discomfort in their feet and legs as they grow. While this is usually normal, persistent pain should be evaluated.
Sports injuries: Active children can develop foot and ankle injuries such as sprains, strains, or fractures, especially with sports activities.
Why Pediatric Foot Care Matters
Taking care of your child’s feet early on can help avoid issues that might affect their posture, mobility, or development later in life. If problems like toe walking, poor-fitting shoes, or pain while walking are addressed early, it can prevent discomfort and more serious conditions down the road.
What We Offer in Pediatric Foot Care
At Peoria Foot and Ankle, we specialize in diagnosing and treating foot and ankle conditions in children. Whether your child is taking their first steps or running around playing sports, we offer a range of services to ensure their feet stay healthy:
Foot and gait evaluations: We assess your child’s foot structure and walking patterns to identify potential concerns that may need attention.
Proper shoe recommendations: Selecting the right shoes is crucial for your child’s foot health. We provide guidance on choosing the best shoes based on their age, foot type, and activity level.
Treatment for common foot problems: We offer treatment for conditions like ingrown toenails, warts, and other common pediatric foot issues to keep your child’s feet in top condition.
Sports injury management: We help with preventing and treating foot injuries, ensuring your child can remain active and play safely.
When to See a Pediatric Podiatrist
If your child experiences any of the following, it might be time to schedule a visit:
Pain in the feet, ankles, or legs
Difficulty walking or frequently walking on tiptoes
Foot or leg deformities, such as flat feet or misaligned toes
Foot injuries like sprains, fractures, or strains
Skin changes like warts, blisters, or calluses
Taking care of your child’s feet today will help them run, jump, and play without pain in the future. If you have concerns about your child’s feet or gait, don’t hesitate to reach out to our office. We’re here to help ensure their feet grow strong, healthy, and ready for whatever comes next!
Gait Issues & Fall Risk
Gait Issues and Fall Risk in Children: What Parents Need to Know
As children grow and develop, their gait—the way they walk—naturally changes. While it’s normal for young children to have an unsteady or unusual gait as they learn to walk, persistent gait issues can increase the risk of falls or lead to long-term foot and posture problems. Addressing gait concerns early on can help prevent complications, ensuring your child stays active and safe as they grow.
Common Gait Issues in Children
Here are some of the most common gait issues we see in children:
Toe Walking: It’s common for toddlers to walk on their toes, but if this continues past the age of 2 or 3, it could indicate a neurological or muscular issue. Toe walking can cause muscle tightness, balance problems, and even pain in the feet and legs if left untreated.
Flat Feet (Pes Planus): Some children are born with flat feet, meaning their arches don’t develop fully. This is common in babies and toddlers, but if the condition persists, it can lead to pain and difficulty walking later on.
In-toeing (Pigeon-toed): This occurs when your child’s feet turn inward as they walk. While it’s often part of normal development, it can affect walking and lead to tripping if it continues beyond early childhood.
Out-toeing: Similar to in-toeing, out-toeing occurs when the feet turn outward. This can cause imbalance and make falling more likely.
Uneven Steps or Limping: If your child has an uneven stride or limps, it could be a sign of pain or an underlying issue with their muscles, joints, or bones that requires attention.
Fall Risk and Gait Issues in Children
Children with gait problems may be at an increased risk for falls. Issues like toe walking, flat feet, or in-toeing can affect balance and coordination, which makes tripping or stumbling more common. As your child grows and becomes more active, these gait issues can cause discomfort and make it harder for them to play sports or engage in other physical activities without pain or injury.
Young children often don’t notice if they’re having balance or walking difficulties, and they may not fully understand how it affects their coordination. This can make them more prone to accidents, like twisting an ankle or falling.
Why Early Intervention is Important
Catching gait problems early can prevent long-term issues. If left untreated, gait abnormalities can lead to:
- Chronic pain in the feet, legs, or back
- affect body alignment
- Increased strain on muscles and joints, leading to future injuries or arthritis
- An increased risk of falls and other accidents
With the right care, most gait issues can be corrected or managed, ensuring your child stays active and experiences fewer complications as they grow.
What We Offer for Gait Issues and Fall Risk
At Peoria Foot and Ankle, we specialize in diagnosing and treating gait problems in children. If you notice any signs of gait abnormalities or fall risk, we can offer a variety of treatments to improve your child’s balance and coordination:
Footwear Recommendations: The right shoes are crucial for kids with gait issues. We can recommend shoes that offer proper support and comfort to help correct their walking patterns.
Physical Therapy: Exercises and stretches can strengthen muscles and improve balance, which helps correct gait problems and reduces fall risk.
Orthotics: Custom shoe inserts can help correct alignment issues, especially for children with flat feet or other structural abnormalities.
Gait Retraining: Our podiatrists or physical therapists can work with your child to retrain their walking pattern, improving their stability and coordination.
Regular Monitoring: We offer ongoing check-ups to track your child’s progress and make sure their gait and posture are developing properly.
When to See a Podiatrist
If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to consult a podiatrist:
- Persistent toe walking after the age of 2 or 3
- Difficulty walking, running, or participating in physical activities
- Frequent trips, falls, or stumbling
- Pain in the feet, ankles, or legs
- Abnormalities in the way your child’s feet move while walking (inward or outward turning)
Taking action early can make a big difference in your child’s development and prevent further complications. If you’re concerned about your child’s gait or fall risk, we’re here to help. Let us work with you to ensure your child’s feet and posture are developing properly so they can stay active, safe, and pain-free.
In-Toeing
In-Toeing in Children
In-toeing, often referred to as “pigeon-toed,” is a condition where a child’s feet turn inward while walking or running. This is common in young children, as their muscles, bones, and joints are still developing. Most children naturally outgrow in-toeing as they grow older. However, in some cases, the condition can persist into later childhood and may require treatment.
What Causes In-Toeing?
In-toeing can result from several factors, including:
Metatarsus Adductus: This is when the front part of the foot turns inward. It is common in infants and is typically flexible, meaning the foot can be gently straightened. Most infants with metatarsus adductus improve without treatment as they grow.
Tibial Torsion: This occurs when the shin bone (tibia) rotates inward, causing the feet to point inward as well. This is common in toddlers and usually corrects itself by ages 3 to 5 as the bones straighten naturally.
Femoral Anteversion: This condition involves the inward rotation of the thigh bone (femur), leading to in-toeing. It is more common in children between ages 2 and 5. While it typically improves as the child grows, it can persist longer in some cases.
Signs and Symptoms of In-Toeing
When your child has in-toeing, you may notice the following signs:
- Feet turning inward while walking or running
- A waddling gait or difficulty running straight
- Frequent tripping or stumbling, particularly if the in-toeing is severe
In-toeing tends to be more noticeable when your child is active, as their feet may appear to point inward during movement.
When to Seek Treatment
For most children, in-toeing resolves on its own as they grow. However, if your child experiences any of the following, it may be time to consider treatment:
- Continued in-toeing beyond age 4 or 5
- Pain or discomfort while walking or running
- Difficulty with balance or coordination
- Signs of limping or an uneven gait
If any of these symptoms occur, it’s important to schedule a visit with a podiatrist for further evaluation. Early intervention can help prevent long-term complications, even if treatment is not immediately necessary.
Treatment Options for In-Toeing
If treatment is required, here are some common options:
Observation: For many children, in-toeing will improve naturally as they grow. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist can help monitor your child’s progress and ensure their feet are developing properly.
Physical Therapy: Specific exercises may help strengthen the muscles and improve the alignment of the bones and joints. Physical therapy is especially beneficial if the in-toeing is caused by tight muscles or joint stiffness.
Braces or Splints: In certain cases, we may recommend braces or splints to help guide the foot into a more natural position as your child grows.
Surgery: Although rarely necessary, surgery might be considered if the condition persists into adolescence and causes significant walking problems, pain, or functional issues.
Why See a Podiatrist?
If you’re concerned about your child’s gait or in-toeing, we can evaluate the condition and recommend the best course of action. Addressing the issue early can prevent complications and help ensure your child’s feet develop properly.
If your child is frequently toeing in, or if they’re having trouble walking or running, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to guide you and provide the appropriate treatment to support your child’s healthy development.
Out-Toeing
Out-Toeing in Children
Out-toeing, also known as “duck feet” or outward turning of the feet, is a condition where a child’s feet point outward instead of straight ahead while walking. Like in-toeing (pigeon-toed), out-toeing is common in young children and typically resolves as they grow. However, if out-toeing persists or causes difficulties, it may require attention.
What Causes Out-Toeing in Children?
There are several factors that can lead to out-toeing in children, including:
Femoral Anteversion: This occurs when the thigh bone (femur) rotates inward, causing the knees to point toward each other while the feet turn outward. It’s a common cause of out-toeing in young children. This condition typically corrects itself by ages 6 to 8 as the child grows and their bones develop.
External Tibial Torsion: This happens when the shin bone (tibia) rotates outward. In young children, this condition is more noticeable when they begin walking, and, like femoral anteversion, it often resolves on its own by the time the child is older, though it may take a few years.
Position in the Womb: Some babies are born with out-toeing due to the way they were positioned in the womb. The position of the baby’s legs before birth can influence how their feet align as they start to walk. In many cases, this condition improves as the child grows.
Hip or Muscle Imbalance: In some instances, out-toeing can be related to muscle weakness or imbalance in the muscles supporting the hip, thigh, or lower leg. If muscles on one side of the body are stronger than the other, this can lead to abnormal rotation of the leg and foot.
Symptoms of Out-Toeing
Children with out-toeing may show signs such as:
- Feet turned outward while walking or running
- Knees pointing inward with the feet pointing outward (referred to as “windswept knees”)
- Increased tripping or difficulty walking in a straight line
- Waddling gait or an awkward walking pattern
In mild cases, your child may not experience any discomfort, and out-toeing may not interfere with their day-to-day activities. However, in more severe cases, it can lead to balance issues or leg pain over time.
When Should You See a Podiatrist?
While out-toeing often improves as children grow, it’s important to monitor your child’s walking and consult a podiatrist if:
- The out-toeing does not improve by age 6 or 7
- The condition is causing pain or difficulty with walking, running, or playing
- Your child experiences frequent tripping, falls, or balance problems
- There is noticeable limping or interference with your child’s mobility
- The out-toeing is associated with other unusual symptoms, such as hip pain or difficulty moving
Treatment for Out-Toeing
Most cases of out-toeing resolve naturally without the need for medical treatment. However, if treatment is required, options may include:
Observation: Often, the best course of action is to monitor your child’s development. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist can ensure that the condition is improving and not causing any further issues.
Physical Therapy: If muscle imbalances contribute to out-toeing, physical therapy may be recommended. Specific exercises and stretches can help improve strength and coordination in the legs and hips, promoting a more neutral leg position.
Orthotics or Footwear: In some cases, specially designed shoes or insoles (orthotics) may be beneficial. These can help improve walking patterns and provide better support and alignment for your child’s feet and legs.
Surgery: Though rare, surgery may be necessary if the out-toeing persists into adolescence and causes significant pain or mobility problems. Surgical options may be considered to correct the bone alignment if needed.
Why See a Podiatrist?
If you notice persistent out-toeing or if your child is experiencing discomfort, it’s important to consult a podiatrist. At Peoria Foot and Ankle, we can evaluate your child’s gait and provide a proper diagnosis. We can also recommend treatments or exercises to help correct the alignment and ensure that your child’s legs and feet develop in a healthy way.
If you’re concerned about your child’s out-toeing or notice difficulties with walking or balance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to help you navigate your child’s foot health and offer solutions to support their development. Contact us for an evaluation, and we’ll work with you to develop the best plan for your child.
Flat Feet
Flat Feet in Children: Understanding and Treatment
Flat feet, or pes planus, is a condition where the arch of the foot is lower than normal or completely absent. It’s common in babies and young children, as their arches haven’t fully developed yet. For most children, flat feet resolve on their own as they grow, but for some, the condition may persist into adolescence or adulthood and may lead to discomfort or difficulty with walking, running, or other activities. Early recognition and care can help ensure that your child’s feet develop properly.
What Causes Flat Feet in Children?
Flat feet in children can be caused by several factors, including:
Developmental Flat Feet: Most children are born with flat feet because their arches haven’t formed yet. As they grow and become more active, their arches usually develop naturally. By age 2 to 3, the arches typically begin to form, but some children may still have flat feet well into their school years.
Genetics: Flat feet can be inherited. If one or both parents have flat feet, their children may be more likely to develop the condition.
Weak or Underdeveloped Muscles: Some children may have weak foot muscles that don’t support the arch properly, leading to flat feet. These muscles may develop over time, but in some cases, muscle weakness can persist, affecting the foot’s structure.
Injury or Medical Conditions: In some cases, an injury or medical condition, such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or obesity, can contribute to flat feet. These conditions may affect the muscles and tendons that support the arch.
Symptoms of Flat Feet in Children
Many children with flat feet don’t experience any symptoms, and the condition does not interfere with their day-to-day activities. However, in some cases, flat feet can cause:
Pain or discomfort in the feet, especially after walking or standing for long periods
Swelling along the inside of the ankle
Difficulty keeping up with other children during physical activities or sports
Tripping or stumbling more frequently than other children
Tightness or stiffness in the foot, particularly in the arch area
If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to have them evaluated by a podiatrist.
When to See a Podiatrist
While most children’s flat feet improve naturally, there are certain signs that may indicate a need for treatment or evaluation by a podiatrist:
- Persistent pain or discomfort in the feet, ankles, or legs
- Difficulty walking, running, or keeping up with peers in physical activities
- Noticeable tiredness or fatigue after standing or walking for extended periods
- Changes in the way your child walks or runs (e.g., excessive pronation or rolling inwards of the feet)
- The development of other foot problems, such as bunions or heel pain
Treatment for Flat Feet in Children
In most cases, flat feet do not require medical treatment, especially if the condition is not causing pain or discomfort. However, if treatment is necessary, options may include:
Observation: For many children, flat feet improve naturally as they grow. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist can help ensure that the condition is developing as expected and prevent future issues.
Orthotics (Custom Footwear): Custom-made insoles or arch supports can help provide extra support for the foot’s arch, relieve pain, and improve walking and running mechanics. This can be especially helpful if your child has pain or difficulty with physical activities.
Foot Exercises: Strengthening exercises can help improve muscle support around the foot and ankle. Stretching exercises may also be recommended to help with flexibility and reduce discomfort.
Proper Footwear: Wearing shoes that offer proper arch support and cushioning can help relieve symptoms of flat feet and prevent further issues. Avoiding shoes that are too soft or lack support is essential.
Physical Therapy: In some cases, physical therapy may be recommended to address any muscle imbalances or foot alignment issues. A physical therapist can guide your child through exercises that improve foot strength and overall posture.
Surgery: Although rare, surgery may be considered if flat feet are causing significant pain, affecting your child’s quality of life, or if other treatments are ineffective.
Why See a Podiatrist?
If you’re concerned about your child’s flat feet or if they’re experiencing pain or difficulty walking, it’s important to contact us. Early evaluation and intervention can help prevent long-term problems and ensure that your child’s feet develop in a healthy way. At Peoria Foot and Ankle, we can assess your child’s foot structure, recommend treatments, and provide guidance on managing any discomfort.
If your child is struggling with flat feet or showing signs of pain or imbalance, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help guide you through the best options for supporting your child’s foot health and development.
Growing Pains
Growing Pains in Children: Podiatry Focused Understanding and Treatment
Growing pains are a common, often concerning experience for children, especially during their most active years. While typically not a serious medical condition, growing pains can be uncomfortable and distressing for both children and their parents. Podiatrists play a key role in managing growing pains, as they often involve muscle strain and the development of the bones, joints, and feet during rapid growth periods.
Understanding the role of podiatry in managing growing pains can help ensure that your child remains comfortable, active, and free from unnecessary foot, leg, or posture problems.
What Are Growing Pains?
Growing pains are typically described as aches or discomfort in the muscles, particularly in the legs, and are most often felt in the evening or at night. The pain is generally not located in the joints but rather in the muscles or soft tissues, and it is most common in children between the ages of 3 and 12. Though these pains are generally temporary, they may cause discomfort and occasionally interfere with a child’s ability to be active.
While growing pains are a normal part of childhood, a podiatrist can assess whether there are any underlying issues with your child’s foot mechanics, posture, or gait that could be contributing to the discomfort.
What Causes Growing Pains?
Although growing pains are still not fully understood, they are thought to result from a combination of factors, particularly during growth spurts:
Rapid Growth: As children grow quickly, especially between ages 3 to 5 and again at ages 8 to 12, their muscles and tendons are stretched to keep up with their growing bones. This stretch can lead to discomfort, especially in the legs and feet.
Increased Activity: Active children who participate in sports or frequent physical activities are more likely to experience sore muscles from overuse or physical exertion, which may feel similar to growing pains.
Foot Structure and Alignment: Some children may experience growing pains related to poor foot alignment, flat feet, or improper footwear. These issues can cause strain in the muscles and tendons of the legs, exacerbating discomfort during growth periods.
Muscle Fatigue: After a long day of activity, children’s muscles can become fatigued, leading to aches and pains, especially in the legs and feet.
A podiatrist can evaluate your child’s foot structure, gait, and alignment to determine if there are any contributing factors to their growing pains.
Symptoms of Growing Pains
Children typically experience growing pains in the muscles of the legs, with the most common symptoms being:
Aching or Throbbing: The pain is usually felt in the thighs, calves, or behind the knees.
Evening or Nighttime Pain: The discomfort typically worsens in the evening or during sleep, often waking the child.
Bilateral Pain: Growing pains are often felt in both legs at the same time.
No Joint Involvement: Unlike injuries, there is no swelling, redness, or warmth in the area. The pain is usually muscular.
No Limps or Mobility Issues: Children with growing pains can usually walk without limping or difficulty, though they may complain of discomfort.
As a podiatrist, we focus on ruling out other foot or leg conditions that may be contributing to the pain, such as flat feet, overuse injuries, or biomechanical issues.
When to See a Podiatrist
Although growing pains are common and often resolve on their own, there are certain signs that may indicate a more serious issue. You should consult a podiatrist if:
- The pain is localized to one leg or joint, which could signal an injury or other medical condition.
- There is noticeable swelling, redness, or warmth around the painful area, which may suggest an infection or injury.
- The pain is preventing your child from walking, running, or participating in normal activities.
- The pain is persistent, lasts for weeks, or occurs more frequently.
- There is a noticeable limp, difficulty moving, or changes in the way your child walks.
Podiatrists are experts in diagnosing foot and lower limb conditions, and we can evaluate whether any structural or alignment issues in the feet and legs are contributing to the growing pains.
Podiatry Treatment for Growing Pains
While growing pains often resolve with time and minimal intervention, there are specific treatments that a podiatrist can recommend to reduce discomfort and prevent further issues:
Proper Footwear: Ensuring your child wears shoes with proper arch support, cushioning, and correct fit is crucial. Improper shoes can exacerbate growing pains by placing undue strain on muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Orthotics: Custom orthotic insoles can help correct foot alignment, especially if your child has flat feet or abnormal foot mechanics. These insoles can redistribute pressure and reduce strain on muscles and tendons, alleviating pain associated with growing pains.
Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: A podiatrist can recommend specific stretches for the calves, hamstrings, and quadriceps to help relieve tension in the muscles. Strengthening exercises for the lower legs and feet can also help reduce the likelihood of muscle fatigue.
Massage and Manual Therapy: Gentle massage of the affected muscles can help relax tight tissues and improve circulation. A podiatrist or physical therapist can also use manual therapy techniques to reduce discomfort and improve mobility.
Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate discomfort associated with growing pains. Always consult with your podiatrist before giving your child any medication.
Physical Therapy: If the growing pains are persistent or seem to be linked to poor posture, gait, or alignment, a podiatrist may refer your child to a physical therapist for further treatment, such as strengthening exercises or manual manipulation.
Why See a Podiatrist?
If you’re concerned about your child’s growing pains or if they seem to be related to underlying foot or leg issues, contact us at Peoria Foot and Ankle so we can help in addressing the problem. Our team of experts can assess the mechanics of your child’s feet and legs, recommend appropriate treatments, and help ensure that their growing pains don’t interfere with their development or long-term mobility.
Growing pains are typically temporary, but if they’re causing your child significant discomfort or if you notice any signs that the pain is something more serious, we are here to help. We’ll work with you and your child to develop a treatment plan that supports healthy growth, reduces pain, and keeps your child moving comfortably.
If you have any concerns about your child’s growing pains or need advice on managing their foot health, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help your child stay active, healthy, and pain-free!