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Pediatric Foot Care: What Parents Need to Know

When foot and ankle problems arise in young ones, they can affect a child’s ability to run, play, and explore. Pediatric foot care focuses on identifying, treating, and preventing conditions that impact a child’s growing feet.

If you’re concerned about your child’s feet, Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center in Greater Columbus is here to help. Call us today to schedule an appointment! 

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About Pediatric Foot Care

Pediatric foot care involves the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of foot and ankle problems in infants, children, and teenagers. Since children’s bones, muscles, and ligaments are still developing, foot conditions that seem minor at first can lead to bigger issues later. Early treatment is key to preventing long-term discomfort and ensuring proper growth and alignment.

Pediatric foot care addresses a variety of conditions, from minor issues like ingrown toenails to more complex structural problems like flat feet or toe walking. Since children’s feet are constantly changing, having a specialist monitor their development is essential for their long-term health and mobility.

Conditions Treated in Pediatric Foot Care

A doctor examining a child’s feet in Columbus, Ohio.

Children can experience a wide range of foot and ankle problems, some of which may be temporary, while others require medical intervention. Here are some of the most common pediatric foot conditions that require attention:

  • Flat Feet – While flat feet are normal in toddlers, persistent flat feet in older children can cause foot pain and difficulty walking.
  • Heel Pain – Often caused by Sever’s disease, heel pain is common in active children, especially those involved in sports.
  • Ingrown Toenails – Painful and sometimes infected, ingrown toenails can result from improper nail trimming or tight shoes.
  • Plantar Warts – These contagious, wart-like growths on the soles of the feet can be painful for children.
  • Toe Walking – Walking on tiptoes is normal for toddlers, but persistent toe walking may indicate underlying issues with muscle tightness or development.
  • Foot and Ankle Injuries – Sprains, fractures, and bruises are common among active kids and require proper treatment to prevent long-term complications.
  • Pediatric Foot Disorders – This term encompasses a range of issues affecting a child’s feet, including structural abnormalities, deformities, and gait problems.

Treatments Provided for Pediatric Foot Conditions

The treatment for pediatric foot conditions varies depending on the severity and cause of the problem. Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center provides personalized treatment plans tailored to the needs of each child. Common treatments include:

  • Custom Orthotics – Specially designed shoe inserts can correct alignment issues caused by flat feet or other structural problems.
  • Physical Therapy – Stretching, exercises, and gait training are often used to treat toe walking or improve movement after an injury.
  • Medication – Over-the-counter or prescription medications may be recommended to relieve pain, swelling, or inflammation.
  • Minimally Invasive Procedures – In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary for issues like severe ingrown toenails or persistent structural problems.
 

With a focus on early intervention, the foot and ankle specialists at Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center work closely with families to create a care plan that promotes proper growth and mobility for children of all ages.

Why See a Pediatric Foot and Ankle Specialist?

Many foot and ankle problems in children don’t resolve on their own. While some parents may assume their child will “grow out of it,” ignoring early signs of foot pain or abnormal walking can result in long-term complications. 

Here’s why it’s beneficial to see a specialist:

  • Early Diagnosis and Treatment – Early treatment of pediatric foot injuries, toe walking, or other conditions can prevent them from worsening.
  • Accurate Assessment – A trained specialist can distinguish between normal developmental stages (like flat feet in toddlers) and true foot disorders that require intervention.
  • Customized Treatment – Unlike general care, pediatric foot care is tailored to a child’s unique needs.
  • Prevention of Long-Term Problems – Addressing issues early can prevent the need for surgery or more invasive treatments later in life.
 

If you have concerns about your child’s feet, schedule a visit with a foot and ankle specialist at Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center to get expert guidance and support.

When to See a Pediatric Foot and Ankle Specialist

It’s not always easy to know when your child’s foot issues are serious enough to warrant medical attention. Here are some signs that it’s time to see a specialist:

  • Persistent Pain – Foot pain, heel pain, or discomfort that doesn’t improve with rest or basic care.
  • Walking Abnormalities – Consistent toe walking, limping, or other irregularities in your child’s walking pattern.
  • Infections or Skin Issues – Swollen, red, or painful areas on the feet, especially ingrown toenails or plantar warts.
  • Recurring Injuries – Frequent ankle sprains or other foot and ankle injuries that seem to happen often.
  • Limited Movement – Pain and limited movement in the foot or ankle could indicate more serious issues that need attention.
 

If any of these signs apply, don’t wait. Schedule a consultation with Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center to ensure your child gets the best possible care.

Tips to Care for Your Child's Feet at Home

While professional care is essential for certain conditions, parents can take steps at home to promote healthy foot development. Here are a few tips to keep your child’s feet healthy and strong:

  1. Choose Proper Footwear – Make sure shoes fit well, provide adequate support, and aren’t too tight.
  2. Trim Nails Correctly – Cut toenails straight across to prevent ingrown toenails.
  3. Watch for Walking Abnormalities – If your child is consistently walking on their toes or has an uneven gait, it’s worth getting it checked.
  4. Keep Feet Clean and Dry – Good hygiene prevents infections, including athlete’s foot and plantar warts.
  5. Encourage Barefoot Time – Allowing toddlers to walk barefoot indoors can help strengthen foot muscles naturally.
  6. Address Injuries Promptly – Don’t ignore foot pain or injury; early treatment reduces the risk of long-term problems.
 

By following these simple steps, parents can support their child’s foot health and avoid preventable issues. If foot pain, heel pain, or persistent problems arise, it’s always a good idea to seek professional help.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Caring for your child’s feet is an important part of their overall health and development. From minor issues like ingrown toenails to more complex conditions like pediatric foot injuries or toe walking, early treatment is key. 

If you’re seeking expert care for pediatric foot disorders in Columbus, Ohio, trust the compassionate team at Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Center. Our skilled specialists are dedicated to helping your child walk, run, and play without pain. Contact us today to make an appointment!

Medically reviewed by Sarah Abshier, DPM, CWS

Our Specialist​s​

JUSTIN R. HUDSON, DPM, CWS

Board Certified Podiatric Surgeon and Wound Specialist

LYNETTE R. MEHL, DPM

Board Certified Podiatric Physician, Clinical Podiatrist

SARAH ABSHIER, DPM, CWS

Clinical Podiatrist, Certified Wound Specialist

ROBERTO A. BRANDÃO, DPM

Board Certified, Fellowship Trained Foot & Ankle Surgeon
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