Children's foot injuries can occur as a result of various factors such as accidents, sports activities, or underlying medical conditions. Here are some common foot injuries that can affect children:
- Sprains and Strains: Children's feet and ankles are still developing and can be easily injured due to sudden twists or turns, causing sprains or strains. This injury can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty walking.
- Sever’s Disease: During growth spurts, this condition, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, can be common in children and adolescents. This condition is the inflammation of the growth plate in the heel (calcaneus).
- Intoeing: This common condition is often undertreated. Many medical authorities will say a child will grow out of intoeing, but they really don’t, and aggressive treatment may be necessary at a late stage of the problem. The concern arises when a child’s gate changes or presents itself later in life. Intoeing is typically related to the inter-uterine position of the baby in pregnancy before birth. Early recognition and early treatment are vital with intoeing.
- Fractures: Children's bones are still growing, so fractures can be more complicated and require specialized treatment. Fractures can occur from falls, sports activities, or accidents. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, and difficulty walking or bearing weight.
- Plantar Fasciitis: This is a common condition in older children and adolescents, caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia - a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot. Symptoms may include heel pain, especially when standing or walking.
- Ingrown Toenails: Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the toenail grows into the skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. This condition is more common in older children and teenagers and can be caused by improper trimming or tight-fitting shoes.
- Flatfoot: Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is flattened, causing the foot to appear flat when standing. This can cause pain and discomfort in some children, especially during physical activities.
If your child experiences foot pain or an injury, seeking medical attention from a healthcare professional, such as your Healthmark podiatrist, is important. They can diagnose the issue and recommend the appropriate treatment to help your child recover.
Are you looking for a children’s foot injury specialist in Philadelphia?
If you are looking for children's foot care in Philadelphia, PA? Contact Healthmark Foot and Ankle Associates today.