Childrens Foot Problems
Heel Pain (Severs)
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The most common cause of heel pain in child/teenage athletes between the ages of 7-15.
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Caused by overuse and repetitive microtrauma of the growth plates of the calcaneus (heel bone).
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There are a number of contributing factors including foot posture, footwear, activity levels, rapid growth.
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A Podiatrist is able to assist with determining the cause and issuing an appropriate treatment
Flat Feet
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Commonly seen in children <4 years of age as this feature of the foot is still developing
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Often carries on throughout childhood without any symptoms or complaints from the child
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Much debate over treatment for flat feet in children however generally only requires treatment if the child is symptomatic ie. pain, tripping,
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Treatments include orthoses, supportive footwear, exercises to develop intrinsic muscles in the feet, padding and strapping
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Some conditions can cause flat feet, if you have any concerns it always pays to have your children's feet checked by a professional.
Intoeing Gait
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Primary causes for intoeing generally follow developmental patterns. Most cases resolve with increasing age however some medical conditions may also cause intoeing..
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Often a family history of the condition
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As many as 10-30% of children up to age 4-5 may have an intoeing gait, with research indicating that only ~4% of cases fail to resolve into adulthood
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Treatment is not always required however it is best to have the condition assessed as there are a number of treatments that may assist (gait plates, appropriate footwear, exercises).