Happy Feet, Healthy Kids: When to Seek Podiatric Care for Your Child

Kids are constantly on the go, running, jumping, and playing.  Healthy feet are essential for their growth, development, and overall well-being.  As a parent, it's important to be aware of common foot problems that can affect children and know when it's time to seek professional help from a podiatrist.  At Laguna Woods Podiatry Group, Dr. Neda Arjomandi, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist, and our team see many children with various foot concerns, and we're here to help you navigate these issues.

Common Foot Problems in Children:

• Ingrown Toenails: These painful conditions occur when the corner of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin.  Improper nail trimming, tight shoes, or trauma can contribute.  Symptoms include redness, swelling, and pain.
• Plantar Warts: These are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and appear as rough, bumpy growths on the bottom of the foot.  They can be contagious and sometimes painful.
• Flat Feet (Pes Planus): While some degree of flat feet is normal in infants, if it persists beyond early childhood or causes symptoms like pain or fatigue, it warrants attention.
• Heel Pain (Sever's Disease): This condition affects the growth plate in the heel and is common in active children, especially during growth spurts. It causes pain in the back of the heel.
• Bunions & Hammertoes: While less common in young children, these deformities can sometimes develop due to genetics or abnormal foot structure.
• Growing Pains:  While not strictly a foot problem, growing pains can sometimes manifest as leg or foot discomfort.  It's essential to differentiate growing pains from other potential issues.
• Toe Walking:  While occasional toe walking is normal, persistent toe walking can indicate underlying neurological or developmental issues.
• Foot Deformities:  Conditions like clubfoot or metatarsus adductus (in-toeing) require early intervention.

When to See a Podiatrist:

It's crucial to seek professional podiatric care from a qualified podiatrist like Dr. Arjomandi if your child experiences any of the following:

• Persistent Pain:  Foot pain that doesn't improve with rest or over-the-counter pain medication.
• Changes in Gait:  Limping, walking on toes consistently, or any other noticeable changes in how your child walks.
• Visible Deformities:  Any unusual shape or alignment of the foot or toes.
• Skin or Nail Problems:  Ingrown toenails, warts that don't respond to over-the-counter treatment, or any other concerning skin or nail changes.
• Difficulty Keeping Up:  If your child struggles to keep up with peers during physical activity due to foot pain or discomfort.
• Regression:  If your child previously walked normally and now starts toe walking or limping.
• Concerns:  If you have any concerns about your child's foot health, it's always best to consult with a podiatrist.

Early Intervention is Key:

Addressing foot problems early can often prevent them from becoming more severe and can help ensure your child's healthy development.  Dr. Arjomandi, DPM, and the team at Laguna Woods Podiatry Group provide comprehensive foot care for children of all ages.  We'll conduct a thorough evaluation, diagnose the issue, and create a personalized treatment plan.

We serve Laguna Hills and surrounding areas, including Irvine, Mission Viejo, Lake Forest, Laguna Niguel, Aliso Viejo, San Juan Capistrano, and more.  Find lasting foot pain relief – schedule a consultation today! Call us at (949)-581-2520.