Since young children may not always be able to effectively communicate a foot or ankle problem, it’s important to pay attention to the way your child moves. Walking on the toes, limping, and foot-dragging are indications that he or she is suffering from some type of foot or ankle disease or injury. Be sure to take your child to see your foot doctor to accurately determine what is happening.
3 common childhood foot conditions include the following:
- Sever’s disease—When the growth plate on your child’s heel becomes painful and swollen, it may be a sign of Sever’s disease. This usually happens between the ages of eight and fourteen when the bone growth plates are still developing. Sporting and exercise activities often have to be curtailed until the plates are fully formed.
- Ingrown toenails—This is a problem common in adults as well as kids. When a toenail grows incorrectly into the tender skin on the edge of the toe, it can quickly become painful and debilitating. Shoes and socks that are too tight can cause this to happen. Also, be sure to cut your child’s toenails correctly to minimize the formation of ingrown toenails. Always cut straight across or on a slight curve and don’t cut them too short.
- Plantar warts—Warts are the common and often bumpy skin condition that is caused by the human papilloma virus. Plantar warts grow on the bottom of the foot and are often hidden from view by thickened skin. A bump under the skin may indicate the presence of a plantar wart, and your child may have pain and discomfort when pressure is applied.
If your child is walking oddly or complaining of pain in the foot or ankle, your foot doctor can make the proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations. Schedule an appointment with the Foot First Podiatry Center in New Albany, IN. Our highly-qualified podiatrist Dr. Zahid Ladha, D.P.M., is dedicated to providing the best diagnostic care and medical treatment for you and your feet. Contact us at (812) 945-9221 and schedule an appointment today!