Tips for kids foot health

Children’s feet are not the same as adults feet. Babies and toddlers feet are soft and pliable as the bones are not yet completely formed. This means their feet can be damaged easier than the feet of older children e.g. by shoes that are too tight. Here are some tips for taking care of your child’s feet.

Daily, weekly and monthly checks to ensure their little feet are still progressing well and the following tips can be adopted to assist with this task.

1. Bare foot time – let them go bare foot on occasion to allow air flow around feet, for muscle development to become stronger, and nerve sensory feedback develops.
2. Wash feet daily – it’s important to wash them daily and to dry well between toes to prevent bacterial or fungal infections, this is especially important with sweaty feet kids. Shoes also need to be kept clean as well.
3. Nail cutting – try cut nails in a straight line avoiding going down the sides as this can lead to ingrown nails. Long nails can dig into other toes and cause holes in shoes and can lead to foot discomfort.
4. Suitable fitting socks- socks that are too small can constrict the toes/feet and disrupt circulation. Socks should be made predominantly with natural fibres like cotton, bamboo or wool to allow for the feet to breath.
5. Shoe size – this is most important as wearing shoes too small can lead to nail damage and disfigurement of toes, not to mention foot pain. Once they are not comfortably fitting it is time for a new pair – don’t delay as they grow so quickly. Shoe checks should be every 3 months up to the age of 3, then every 4 months till 5 years and every 6 months thereafter. Always measure both feet as your child’s foot is unlikely to be the same size.
6. There are many terms that you may hear about feet and stability problems such as pigeon toed, in toeing, out toeing, knocked knees, flat arches and toe walking. Ask for help – if there are anything that doesn’t seem right with your child’s foot health it is better to seek a second opinion from a health professional, podiatrist or a doctor.

Contact us for more information or to make an appointment if you are concerned about your child’s feet.

Janine Frampton

Podiatrist