Guide for Growing Feet
Growing up will always have its’ awkward stages and challenges, but when is it time for the professionals to have a closer look?
Although it is important to note that not all children's foot concerns require intervention, and many may be ‘grown out’ in time, signs and symptoms of easily preventable complaints can often be lost in the grey area between what’s normal and what requires a trip to the paediatrician. A common example of this would be ‘flat feet’.
I find myself regularly having to explain to parents that it is normal for babies and infants to have visibly flat feet, due to various mechanical factors as well as fatty foot pads hiding the shape of the arch. Children’s arch height should continue to develop until the age of between six and eight years as their lower limb rotation shifts and ligaments strengthen.
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Foot Care First
On the other side of the spectrum, we have the children who truly have issues with flat feet. Whether it is from the positioning of their subtalar joint, muscle tightness or weaknesses, hyper-mobility, or if they are only slightly pronated but their activities/sports are high impact. Referral to a podiatrist can mean the difference in whether they are restricted in their activities or not, waking up at night complaining of pain in their legs, or even whether they develop structural deformities which are otherwise preventable.
Other conditions which may be seen as quite benign, such as a simple plantar wart, may be left to the body to clear up. However, what if the wart is on a part of the foot that makes walking normally in shoes painful? The decision to both treat and offload effectively can make a big difference in their involvement in daily activities.
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Complaints of sore feet, lower legs, or knees
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Frequently tripping
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Dermatological conditions such as ingrown toenails, excessive callus, or chronic blistering at high pressure areas.
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Warts in locations which make day to day activities painful
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Excessively flat feet- Where the midfoot is touching the ground, or there is visible bulging of the ankle or midfoot.
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In-toeing, out-toeing, or ‘knock knees’
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Is kept awake at night with sore legs
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Is reluctant to walk long distance and partake in sporting activity
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Has toes that are not straight, including bunions
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Is walking on their toes, and doesn’t respond to stretching regime
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Frequently twists their ankle
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Has uneven wear on the soles of their shoes
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Is reported to have a ‘funny walking/running style by teachers, parents or sports coach.
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Is hoping to progress to ‘en pointe’ ballet training
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OUR PAEDIATRIC SERVICES
So how do podiatrists treat paediatric cases?
A Podiatrist will generally take a detailed history and assessment of any patient presenting for their initial treatment.
However, where an adult or geriatric patient may be questioned more readily on their medication and surgical history, the paediatric musculoskeletal assessment should always include the following:
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Thorough birth and developmental history, including milestones not related to gait
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Description of habits and recreation e.g. do they sleep on their stomach? Do they spend time in walkers?
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History of symptoms and their progression
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Full biomechanical assessment (age appropriate)
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Neurological assessment
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Footwear assessment.
From here, podiatrists may prescribe appropriate footwear and orthotics, exercises and stretches tailored to paediatrics, or refer on to relevant professionals if any further red flags arise.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Paediatric podiatry focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of foot and lower limb issues in children.
If your child complains of foot pain, has trouble walking, displays unusual gait patterns, or has skin or nail concerns, it’s a good idea to consult a podiatrist.
We treat a variety of conditions including flat feet, ingrown toenails, warts, heel pain, gait abnormalities, and sports injuries.
If you notice limping, toe walking, or excessive tripping, it’s worth having a professional assessment to ensure their gait is developing correctly.
Orthotics may be recommended for some children to correct foot or leg alignment, relieve pain, or improve their walking patterns.
Yes, many children experience foot issues due to growth spurts, activity levels, or improper footwear. Early intervention can help address these problems effectively.
Our treatments are gentle, child-friendly, and designed to ensure your child feels comfortable and safe.
Encourage proper footwear, regular activity, and early assessments for any noticeable concerns to maintain healthy foot development.
Yes, we provide guidance on selecting the right footwear to support your child’s growing feet.
Appointments typically last between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your child’s needs.
Flat feet are common in young children and usually resolve as they grow. However, if it causes pain or walking issues, it should be assessed.
We see children of all ages, from toddlers taking their first steps to teens navigating active lifestyles.
No referral is needed; you can book an appointment directly.
Call us at 1300 16 16 88 or book online through our website.