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    Healthy Feet, Healthy Child

    Published on November 24th, 2015

    Children’s feet are constantly growing and changing. While this is a part of growing up, it is important to monitor their feet to make sure that any abnormal development is looked at by a podiatrist. Common foot problems affecting children include warts and ingrown toenails, both of which ought to be treated by a podiatrist to avoid further complications. Something to consider when it comes to your child’s health is that not every issue is associated with foot pain. A child’s foot has not fully grown, and it is rather pliable, meaning that your child may not feel pain that you would feel.

    Luckily, when a child encounters a foot problem, it can usually be treated easier than it would be if he or she were an adult. Deformities that affect children, such as an intoed gait, can typically be corrected at an early age. However, if they are not treated early, the chance of a full recovery decreases.

    In regards to your child’s feet, the main point is that you want to keep an eye on them. There are also a few tips you can follow to prevent foot problems plaguing them as they grow older. One of the best things you can do for your child is get them shoes that fit. Avoid hand-me-down shoes, and make sure you cannot bend them easily. With infants, you do not want to constrict their feet in any way, as this can delay regular development. When they are younger, their shoe size will change rather quickly, so instead of waiting for them to complain that their shoes are too small, it is good to measure them often. In addition, keep them from going barefoot too often, as this can be a breeding ground for infection.

    If you notice any issues with your child’s gait or abnormal redness or swelling, contact a podiatrist right away. It is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your children’s foot health.

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