Podiatrists Care For Kids Too

Podiatrists Care For Kids Too

April 21, 2022 in News, Specialty Clinic

Parents, foot and ankle pain is never normal for kids. Watch for pain and subtle signs of foot and ankle problems in children. If a child experiences pain or a change in the condition of their feet and ankles, it’s time to check in with the expert in kids’ foot health—a podiatrist. 

Many people think podiatry is primarily for older people but children experience a wide range of developmental conditions and injuries to their feet and ankles. Podiatrists treat children every day.

Podiatrists say some most common conditions to watch for in kids are: 

• Apophysitis or Sever’s Disease—If a young athlete complains of nagging heel pain, it’s time to see a podiatrist. Calcaneal apophysitis, or Sever’s Disease, is the most common cause of heel pain in children, especially preteens. The growth plate in the heel bone can become inflamed due to overuse in kids who play sports. 
• Ingrown toenails—Usually, toenails grow straight out. Sometimes, however, one or both corners or sides curve and grow into the flesh, causing redness and irritation. Shoe pressure can contribute to this problem, so parents should be sure children are wearing properly fitted shoes. Ingrown nails can become seriously infected if left untreated, and antibiotics alone are not a cure. A podiatrist can correct the problem with a minor procedure.
• Warts—Kids are vulnerable to all sorts of viruses—including the highly contagious virus that causes warts. This virus thrives in warm, moist environments, like pool decks at camp or inside sweaty shoes. Warts are not serious but can become uncomfortable or even painful for kids. Parents should avoid home treatments that may contain harmful ingredients and schedule a visit with a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Podiatrists treat these and other conditions in children that may provide quick relief of pain. Podiatrists provide conservative care and perform surgery to help get kids back in their game.

Regional Medical Center’s Specialty Clinic is proud to offer three visiting podiatrists to care for our community. For more information or if you have questions, please call 563-927-7301.