Parents should keep an eye on their child’s feet as they continue to grow. Children might not always tell parents when they are having problems with their feet, or if they hurt. Here are five tips for parents to ensure a child’s foot develops properly.
- Visit a podiatrist once a year for a checkup. The bones in the feet are growing each day, which means that they are flexible. A podiatrist will look for any bones that may become twisted or distorted.
- Before purchasing a pair of shoes, have the child’s foot measured. Feet grow and change at a rapid pace. This means bringing your child to the store with you. Examine the type of shoe you may want to purchase. Look for a firm heel counter, cushioning of the insole, and make sure it has arch support. Shoes should bend where the foot bends.
- Watch how your child walks. Does the child have knock knees? Does the child walk on their tippy toes? Does the child’s toe point inward, outward, or straight ahead? Early detection can prevent future problems.
- Be careful of where your child walks barefoot. Outside elements may expose the child to infection, accidental cuts, sprains, and fungus's. Warts and Athlete’s foot are common problems associated with walking barefoot.
- Hand me down shoes are not ideal for school age children because each person has a unique foot pattern and the shoe has conformed to the other child’s feet. Shoes often need to be replaced every few months as the child’s foot grows.
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