Understanding common childhood foot conditions is essential for parents and caregivers. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent more severe problems in the future. Children’s feet are still developing, making them susceptible to various conditions that may affect their mobility and overall health. Here, we outline some of the most frequent foot problems in children and provide insights into their symptoms, causes, and available treatments.

​Plantar Warts

Plantar warts, also known as verrucas, are non-cancerous skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They often appear on the soles of feet and toes, making walking and standing uncomfortable for children. Warts can spread from person to person or from one area of the body to another if left untreated.

• Symptoms: Small rough bumps with tiny black dots in the center, often painful when squeezed or pressed.
• Causes: Direct contact with an infected person's wart or a contaminated surface, like at a public pool or locker room.
• Treatment: Over-the-counter topical creams or gels containing salicylic acid, cryotherapy (freezing), laser therapy, and surgical removal.

​Flat Foot

Flat foot, or pes planus, is a condition where the arches of the feet do not develop normally, resulting in flat soles. While this condition is quite common in infants as their arches have not yet formed, it often resolves as they grow older. However, in some cases, the arches do not develop properly as the child ages, leading to discomfort or trouble walking.

• Symptoms: Pain and stiffness in the feet, particularly in the arch area. Children may also have difficulty participating in physical activities.
• Causes: Genetic factors, obesity, injury, or certain medical conditions such as cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy.
• Treatment: In most cases, flat feet do not require treatment as they often improve with age. However, if the condition causes significant pain or impedes daily activities, custom orthotics or physical therapy may be recommended.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when the edges of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin, often causing pain and inflammation. This condition is common among children due to their tendency to cut their nails too short or wear ill-fitting shoes.

• Symptoms: Pain, redness, swelling, and tenderness around the affected toenail. In severe cases, there may be pus or bleeding.
• Causes: Improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes that squeeze toes together, or an injury to the toenail.
• Treatment: Soaking the foot in warm water several times a day can help ease discomfort and reduce swelling. A podiatrist can also remove part of the nail and prescribe antibiotics to treat any infection.

We offer same- or next-day appointments for children suffering from an ingrown toenail, so don't hesitate to reach out for prompt treatment.

Heel Pain

Heel pain, which is especially common among physically active kids, can often be attributed to a condition known as Sever’s disease. This condition occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed, usually during periods of rapid growth.
Symptoms: Pain in the bottom or back of the heel that is worse after physical activity. Children may also have difficulty walking or running.
Causes: Overuse from sports activities, wearing unsupportive shoes, or excessive weight-bearing on hard surfaces.
Treatment: Resting and icing the affected area can often help alleviate pain and inflammation. A podiatrist may also recommend stretching exercises, orthotics, or physical therapy to prevent future flare-ups.

Bunions

Bunions are bony lumps that form on the joint at the base of the big toe, causing it to bend towards the other toes. This condition can be hereditary and is often more common in girls than boys.

• Symptoms: A bump on the side of the affected toe, swelling, redness or tenderness around the joint, and difficulty wearing shoes.
• Causes: Inherited foot type or shoe choice (e.g., pointy-toed shoes).
• Treatment: Wearing properly fitting shoes with a wider toe box can help alleviate discomfort. If bunions are severe and causing pain, our team at Foot & Ankle Specialists can perform minimally invasive bunion surgery.

Sports Injury Treatment From A Pediatric Foot Specialist

Pediatric Injuries & Fractures

Active children and teenagers are susceptible to foot and ankle injuries, including sprains, strains, and fractures. If your child is involved in sports or physical activities, knowing how to recognize the signs of a potential injury can help them receive prompt medical treatment.

Sprains & Strains

Sprains occur when ligaments (bands of tissue connecting bones) stretch or tear, while strains affect the muscles or tendons. Both can result from everyday activities such as jumping, running, or playing sports.

• Symptoms: Pain and swelling around the affected area with limited mobility.
• Causes: Twisting or overstretching the ligaments or tendons.
• Treatment: Resting and elevating the affected limb can help reduce pain and swelling. A podiatrist may also recommend physical therapy or the use of a walking boot for more severe cases.

Stress Fractures

Stress fractures are tiny cracks in bones that often occur in the feet and ankles due to repetitive impact activities like running or jumping. Children and teenagers who participate in sports with high-intensity training may be at higher risk of developing stress fractures.

• Symptoms: Pain, tenderness, swelling, and bruising around the affected area that worsens with activity.
• Causes: Overuse and repetitive stress on a specific bone.
• Treatment: Resting and avoiding activities that put pressure on the affected area can help heal stress fractures. In some cases, immobilization with a cast or walking boot may be necessary.

If your child is showing signs of a foot or ankle injury, it's important to seek medical attention from a pediatric foot specialist. Our team at Foot & Ankle Specialists has extensive experience in treating and preventing sports injuries in children, providing personalized care to help your child return to their active lifestyle as soon as possible.