Pediatric Foot & Ankle Care
Children's feet and ankles change significantly as they grow. While many variations in walking and foot development are normal, persistent pain, repeated injuries, or noticeable changes in the way a child walks may deserve professional attention.
At Brazos Foot & Ankle, we evaluate foot and ankle concerns in children with an emphasis on comfort, development, activity, and long-term function.
Common Foot Problems in Children
Children can experience many of the same foot and ankle conditions as adults, along with issues associated with growth and development.
Reasons parents may seek a podiatric evaluation include:
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Heel or arch pain
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Flat feet
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Ingrown toenails
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Plantar warts
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Ankle sprains
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Sports injuries
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Frequent tripping
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Unusual walking patterns
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Foot or ankle pain during activity
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Concerns about foot development
Young athletes may also develop overuse problems as they participate in running, dance, soccer, basketball, football, and other activities.
When Is Foot Pain in a Child a Concern?
Children don't always describe pain clearly. A child may instead begin avoiding certain activities, limp after sports, frequently ask to be carried, or complain that shoes hurt.
Persistent symptoms should not automatically be dismissed as growing pains.
A foot and ankle evaluation allows the provider to assess the child's feet, gait, movement, footwear, activity level, and areas of discomfort. Imaging may be recommended for certain injuries or conditions.
Treatment Designed for Growing Feet
Treatment depends on the child's diagnosis, age, symptoms, and activity level.
Some conditions require only observation or changes in footwear. Others may benefit from activity modification, stretching, physical therapy, orthotics, bracing, or additional treatment.
The goal is to address the problem appropriately without unnecessary treatment while helping children remain active whenever possible.
Sports & Growing Feet
Children who participate in sports place considerable demands on developing feet and ankles. Pain that repeatedly occurs during or after practice may indicate an overuse injury or another problem that should be evaluated.
Early attention can be particularly important when pain changes the way a child runs, walks, or participates.
Help Keep Them Moving
Healthy feet provide the foundation for running, playing, exploring, and growing.
At Brazos Foot & Ankle, we help families better understand children's foot and ankle concerns and discuss appropriate treatment when needed.
If your child is experiencing persistent foot or ankle pain, schedule an appointment with Brazos Foot & Ankle.
