Podiatry
Children's Podiatrist Toowoomba.
During childhood, all of the bones in our feet start to harden – ensure that your child’s developing feet are well taken care of.
What is Paediatric Podiatry ?
A podiatrist is an expert in all things feet, ankles, and legs – including the bones, joints, soft tissue, skin, and complex biomechanics. We provide prevention, diagnosis, and treatment for a wide range of illnesses and injuries to the lower extremities.
When it comes to children’s podiatry, however, we also take into account that their feet, toes, ankles, and legs are still developing. As kids grow and gain strength and stability, problems can arise that can affect their ability to continue to walk normally and continue the regular development of their bones, joints, muscles, and soft tissue. As kids get even older and are constantly running and playing, legs and feet can become excessively sore and tired if the foot posture and alignment are irregular.Â
Common Foot Issues inChildren
Kids are always growing and changing – it can be difficult for parents to know what is normal in terms of foot development and what is not. We treat a number of common foot issues at Optimise Health, including:
Toe WalkingÂ
When a child walks on their tippy toes.
Pigeon ToesÂ
Also known as in-toeing; when the toes point inwards.
Out Toeing
When the toes point outwards when walking.
Flat Feet
When there is little to no arch at the bottom of the foot.
Growing Pains
Common in children aged 3 to 4, then again in the preteen years.
Ingrown Toenails
One of the most common problems we treat in children.
Athlete’s Foot
A fungal infection often caught by walking barefoot.
Warts
Another common problem in children that can spread easily.
Foot & Lower Leg Pain
Often caused by sports and as a result of certain conditions.
While some of these issues can go away on their own and are not indicative of future foot problems, it’s a good idea to bring your child in for a check-up just to be safe.Â
When to see an Experienced Children’s Podiatrist ?
We recommend making an appointment if your child complains of sore, tired, or painful legs and feet. We also recommend making an appointment if you notice that your child is avoiding certain activities (such as standing and walking), if they’ve been diagnosed with a condition that may affect their feet (such as spina bifida), or if you have other concerns about the development of their lower limbs.
What to Expect at Your Child’s Podiatry Appointment ?
At your child’s first appointment, our podiatrist will take down a full medical history and perform a thorough examination of their feet and lower limbs. If a problem is suspected, your child may also be sent for X-rays and other tests. Once the assessment is complete, we will provide treatment recommendations (such as custom orthotics, lifestyle changes, or even surgery in severe cases).
 If you’re worried about your children’s feet, their development, or you’ve noticed something unusual, you’ve come to the right place.
Tips for Choosing Shoes for Your Child
Did you know that poor-fitting shoes can lead to foot issues, such as lifelong gait problems, severe pain, and even mobility problems? This is why your child must be wearing the correct shoe size.
- Check that there is enough room for slight forward, backward, and side movement.
- Ensure that there’s about 10mm of space between your child’s toes and the end of the shoe.
- Look at the natural shape of your child’s feet and choose shoes with a similar outline.
- If foot pain is experienced while wearing a high-quality shoe, have a podiatrist assess the fit and shape.
Remember that children have rapidly growing feet, so it’s not uncommon for shoes to fit them well one week and be too small the next. This is why it’s important that you regularly perform the above checks.
Frequently Asked Questions About Children's Feet .
What causes children’s foot problems?
There are actually many possible causes for foot, ankle, and lower leg problems. These include genetic factors, birth defects, trauma, and overuse injuries. Children with certain conditions (such as cerebral palsy) are also at higher risk of developing foot problems.
Is flat feet something my child will “grow out of”?
Most children are born with extra fat in the arch area of the foot, which can make them appear to have flat feet for the first few years of their life. If your child still appears to have flat feet at three, it’s a good idea to have them assessed by a podiatrist.
Does health insurance cover children’s orthotics?
Parents whose children need orthotics are often concerned about the cost. The good news is that private health insurance The good news is that private health insurance may cover some of the cost of orthotics (keep in mind that this will depend on your insurer and the level of coverage you hold).
Are foot problems hereditary?
Yes, some children’s foot problems can be hereditary. If a foot issue runs in your family, it’s important that you take your child to see a podiatrist from a young age to ensure that their feet are developing the way they should be (and to discuss treatment options if they aren’t).
Need a Childrens Podiatrist in Toowoomba or Warwick? Choose Optimise Health.
Our team of highly qualified pediatric podiatrists is here to help your children walk and play pain-free, whether they’re experiencing a momentary foot issue or experiencing a lifelong problem. We can diagnose and treat all types of foot, ankle, and lower leg problems and offer a range of treatments to improve your child’s foot health.
If your child is experiencing any sort of pain, discomfort, or unusual behaviour in their lower extremities, be sure to get in touch with Optimise Health today.
