4 Common Pediatric Foot Issues
What is it about baby feet that are so sweet? While they are tiny in size, they play an important role in their movement and development. That’s why it’s important to pay close attention to babies' feet as they continue to grow! When they are first born, the bones in babies’ bodies are flexible, so monitoring their growth and gait is important, especially through their big milestones like standing and walking.
The following are some foot issues that parents often bring up during these early years. While many issues resolve as the child goes through development, if you have any concerns, consult with our podiatrists at Precision Foot and Ankle Centers.
Common pediatric foot problems
1. Toe walking
When babies start standing and practice walking, it’s common for them to walk on their toes. However, sometimes there are underlying issues that can cause toe walking.
2. Flat feet
Babies’ feet have more fat so it may look like your baby doesn’t have any arches while they are young. As the tissues in their feet mature, they develop a more defined arch, but if you notice flat feet that persist through development, have a podiatrist assess their feet.
3. In-toeing
Also known as pigeon-toe, in-toeing is when your child’s toes face in towards each other. This typically results from an abnormal rotation from the feet, legs, or hips.
4. Metatarsus adductus
This condition is when the feet curve towards each other in a “C” shape. It is often seen in children who are just learning to walk and can cause tripping and an abnormal gait.
There is so much growth and change during the first few years of your child’s life. It’s every parent’s wish to support their children’s health, and that should include their feet too! It can be challenging to keep up with every step of their development, but that’s why our podiatrists are here to support you.
If you have any concerns or questions about your child’s foot health, contact Precision Foot and Ankle Centers for an assessment! Our experienced and compassionate pediatric podiatrists use innovative technologies to support our patients, from small babies to active teenagers! Contact our Los Angeles, Torrance, or San Pedro locations to schedule an appointment today!