Foot and ankle problems in children often go unnoticed.
It is important to protect growing feet and have problems checked out early.
1.Your Kids Can’t Keep Up with Their Peers
If children lag behind in sports or backyard play, it may be because their feet or legs are tired. Fatigue is common with flat feet. The muscles in the feet and legs tire easily because the feet are not functioning as well as they should.
2. Children Voluntarily Withdraw from Activities they Usually Enjoy
If they are reluctant to participate, it may be due to heel pain, a problem often seen between 8- 14years. Repetitive stress from sports may cause muscle strain and inflammation of the growth plate at the back of a child’s heel.
3. They Don’t Want to Show You Their Feet
Children may feel pain or notice a change in their feet or nails but don’t tell their parents. Make a habit of inspecting their child’s feet starting at a young age. Look for any changes such as calluses, growths, skin discolouration, or redness and swelling around the toenails.
4. Your Child Often Trips and Falls
Repeated clumsiness may be a sign of in-toeing, balance problems or neuromuscular conditions.
5.The Child Complains of Pain
Pain is not normal! Injuries may seem minor, but if pain or swelling last more than a few days, have your child’s foot examined.
A child with any of these signs or symptoms should be promptly examined by a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment.