Children’s feet play a significant role in their growth and development. As they explore the world around them, their little feet are exposed to various activities and stressors that can sometimes lead to foot problems.
It is important for parents to be aware of common foot problems that occur among children, their causes, symptoms, and possible treatments to ensure the healthy development of their little ones.
Types of foot problems in children
There are several common foot problems experienced by children, such as flat feet, in-toeing, out-toeing, and toe-walking.
Dr. Abd. Razak explains that most babies are born with flat feet because the “baby fat” obscures the arch on the inside of the foot. As they grow, the arch gradually develops as the “baby fat” diminishes and the leg muscles become stronger.
Since flat feet are part of normal dynamic changes and typically disappear by the age of 4, most children do not require treatment, even though some may retain flat feet as they grow older.
In a small percentage of children with flat feet, further evaluation may be necessary to rule out structural or bone issues, which may include X-rays of the feet. Different treatment methods, including surgical approaches, may be recommended depending on the underlying cause of flat feet.
In-toeing occurs when both feet turn inward (towards the midline) when children walk and move, while out-toeing is the opposite.
Dr. Abd. Razak explains that in-toeing is more common in boys aged 1 to 4, and the usual cause is internal tibial torsion (the shinbone twisting inward). Out-toeing is more commonly seen in girls aged 4 to 7 and is caused by excessive femoral anteversion (excessive hip rotation). Both conditions typically resolve on their own.
Children with in-toeing due to excessive hip rotation are advised not to sit in a “W” position on the floor, as it can hinder their physiological recovery as they grow. Instead, they are encouraged to sit cross-legged.
One cause of heel pain in children is inflammation around the attachment site of the heel tendon.
This condition is known as Sever’s disease, where repetitive pulling injuries during physical activities trigger inflammation in specific areas of the bone (apophysis).
Treatment usually involves rest from activities that can exacerbate the pain, icing the affected area, and taking anti-inflammatory medication.
Another type of foot problem that occurs in children is ingrown toenails.
Dr. Abd. Razak explains that this problem typically occurs in older children and teenagers. Some risk factors include wearing tight shoes and excessive moisture from excessive physical activity.
The importance of early detection
While most common foot problems in children are part of the natural developmental changes in foot alignment that improve on their own, some do not resolve as expected or may worsen over time.
It is important for parents to observe, and if foot problems do not improve as expected, the child should be further evaluated by a doctor.
Diagnosing children’s foot problems
Typically, doctors may consider an X-ray for the child. The need for further adjustment or intervention will depend on the underlying cause and severity of the foot problem.
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