Checking Children's Feet

Examining feet frequently can help to identify problems that may need to be addressed. It is recommended that you examine your child’s feet and walking patterns in order to take care of issues early on.

Check the tops and bottoms of feet, as well as in-between toes. Some common foot problems that may be discovered are:

·         Ingrown toe nails

·         Blisters

·         Scratches and cuts

It is best keep broken skin clean and dry. Make sure to keep an eye on these areas to prevent infections.

Look for pressure areas, redness, warmth, and nail discoloration. These can be the sign of more serious problems that may require medical attention.  

 It is best to have your child evaluated by a physician if any of the following are true:

·         Feet turn in or out excessively

·         Your child complains of tired legs, heel pain, or leg/foot cramps

·         Shoes shows uneven wear patterns

 Image by Spiterman. Une histoire de pieds.(2010). Flickr.