Foot and ankle problems in children are hard to spot. Signs and symptoms are small and sometimes children can’t explain when or what’s wrong. Any parent would agree that it is important to protect their children and have problems checked out early. If your child is experiencing any of these warning signs it is time for a trip to the podiatrist:
Your Child Often Trips and Falls
Repeated falls can point to a number of conditions. If the clumsiness continues, it might be caused by in-toeing, balance problems, or neuromuscular conditions.
Your Child Complains of Pain
It is never normal for a person to experience pain. If your child has foot pain or swelling for more than a few days, even after a minor injury, it’s time to have their feet examined.
Your Child Can’t Keep Up with Their Peers
If your child cannot keep pace in sports or backyard play, it may be due to tired feet or legs. Fatigue is common in children with flat feet. The muscles in the feet and legs tire easily due to abnormal functioning.
Your Child Voluntarily Withdraws from Activities They Like
This is a common complaint of active children complaining of heel pain. Repetitive stress from sports and running can cause inflammation of the heel’s growth plate. The growth plate is especially prone when the child is between 8 and 14 years old.
Your Child Doesn’t Want to Show You Their Feet
Some children don’t want to talk to their parents about pain or change in appearance because they fear a trip to the doctor’s office. It is important for parents to discourage this feeling. It is also a good idea for parents to make a habit of inspecting their child’s feet for any changes like calluses, skin discoloration, warts, redness, or swelling.