Pain in a child’s foot or ankle is never normal.
There is no such thing as continued common “growing pains.”
Any pain that lasts more than a few days, or that is severe enough to limit the child’s walking should be assessed by the team at Complete Foot Care at the Balcombe Foot and Ankle Clinic
Does your child suffer with any of these?
A Flatfoot – Some children with flat feet have no symptoms.
However they may have trouble participating in physical activities or sports, or appear to walk or run awkwardly.
Some children complain of pain or cramping in their feet, legs or knees.
Any pain or difficulty with a child’s feet should be evaluated by Anna Balcombe specialist in Paediatric Biomechanics.
In toeing – some children walk with their forefoot in turned which can make their gait unstable and clumsy. Many grow out of this by the age of 3or 4 however others may require corrective insoles to help their foot function and prevent future changes and pain in their feet. If you are at all concerned you contact us for advice on Complete Foot Care at the Balcombe Foot and Ankle Clinic.
Heel pain (Sever's Disease) – Is your child suffering with a painful heel—this maybe due to inflammation of the heel bone growth plate?
It typically affects children between the ages of 8 and 14 years old, because the heel bone is not fully developed until at least age 14. Until then, any new bone forming at the growth plate maybe under too much repetitive stress and inflammation can develop.
Ingrown Toenails – There are many causes to in growing nails in children including incorrect nail trimming, nail picking, adolescence foot sweating, big toe position and shoes. When the nail breaks the skin, serious infections can result. Never try to dig the nail out at home; always seek help and treatment at The Balcombe Foot and Ankle Clinic.
Warts (Verrucae ) – These can develop anywhere on the foot and they are caused by a virus commonly picked up on wet floors ( swimming pools, shower rooms etc) Typically they appear on the bottom of the foot but can occur anywhere and may grow deep into the skin causing walking or standing painful.
Does your Child have a foot related Problem?
Foot and ankle problems in children often go unnoticed. Signs and symptoms can be subtle, and sometimes children can’t explain what’s wrong. But it’s important to protect growing feet and have problems checked out early by us who will give you Complete Foot Care at the Balcombe Foot and Ankle Clinic.
Here Are Five Signs to Look Out For:
- Your Kids Can’t Keep Up with Their Peers
If children lag behind in sports or backyard play, it may be because their feet or legs are tired. Tiredness, aching legs and an unwillingness to walk are common when children have flat feet. The muscles in the feet and legs tire easily because the feet are not functioning as well as they should. - Children Voluntarily Withdraw from Activities they usually Enjoy
If they are reluctant to participate, it may be due to heel pain — a problem often seen in children between the ages of 8 and 14. Repetitive stress from sports may cause muscle strain and inflammation at the growing plate of the heel bone, a weak area at the back of a child’s heel. - They Don’t Want to Show You Their Feet
Children may feel pain or notice a change in the appearance of their feet or nails but don’t tell their parents. At The Balcombe Foot and Ankle Clinic we encourage parents to make a habit of inspecting their child’s feet starting at a young age. Look for any changes such as calluses, growths, skin discoloration, or redness and swelling around the toenails. These are all sign that you may require a professional Podiatric opinion. - Your Child Often Trips and Falls
Repeated clumsiness may be a sign of in-toeing, balance problems or neuromuscular conditions. - The Child Complains of Pain
It is never normal for a child to have foot pain. Injuries may seem minor, but if pain or swelling last more than a few days, have your child’s foot examined by u for a complete diagnosis with care and treatments for your child.
