What is pediatric podiatry?
Pediatric podiatry involves evaluating, treating, and preventing foot, ankle and leg problems in children. Many of the same foot problems that affect adults also occur in children.
However, children require specialized podiatric care because their bodies are still developing. Additionally, young children may not be able to communicate their symptoms. That’s why it’s important to seek treatment from caring professionals like the team at Spring Branch Podiatry, PLLC, who have experience working with kids.
What are common pediatric foot problems?
The pediatric podiatrists at Spring Branch Podiatry, PLLC treat a wide range of children’s foot problems, including:
- Congenital conditions, including flat feet
- Intoeing, or feet that turn inward
- Out-toeing, or feet that turn outward
- Bowlegs, or an outward curving of the legs
- Knock knees, or an inward leaning of the knees
- Ingrown toenails
- Heel pain
- Gait problems or difficulty walking
- Plantar warts
- Fractures and sprains
- Achilles tendonitis
Some of these conditions, including flat feet, may resolve by themselves as the child grows older. It’s important to get an accurate diagnosis of your child’s specific condition to avoid worsening of the problem.
When should I take my child to a pediatric podiatrist?
Unless your child’s condition was the result of a recent injury or accident, it can be hard to tell if they need podiatric care. You should call Spring Branch Podiatry, PLLC if your child exhibits any of the following signs and symptoms:
- Limping
- Complaints of foot pain
- Moving more slowly than usual
- Falling or losing balance more than usual
- Walking bowlegged
- Walking with the toes pointing inward or outward
- Wounds, growths, or discoloration of the feet
- Complaints that shoes hurt
- Constantly walking on tiptoes
The team at Spring Branch Podiatry, PLLC carefully evaluates your child’s condition in their kid-friendly office.
What treatments does pediatric podiatry include?
The type of treatment your child needs depends on their specific condition, age, and activity level. Treatment for childhood foot problems may include:
- Physical therapy
- Getting new shoes
- Orthotic devices
- Topical or oral medications
Treating foot problems early on reduces the risk of more significant issues down the road. Call the pediatric podiatry experts at Spring Branch Podiatry, PLLC.
