3 Common Pediatric Foot and Ankle Conditions: What to Look For

Because this week is Every Kid Healthy Week, today Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA is discussing some of the most common pediatric foot and ankle issues and what you need to be on the lookout for.

You should still familiarize yourself with some of the most common pediatric foot and ankle issues so you can take the proper steps to prevent them from happening. 

1. Sports injuries. Foot or ankle sprains are particularly common among active children who play sports like football or soccer. Ankle sprains can be especially dangerous when they affect your child’s developing cartilage and bones and can result in growth plate fractures. In many cases, these types of injuries heal without issue, but you must see a podiatrist whenever an injury occurs. 

2. Flat Feet. While flat feet are normal in infants and young children, this condition can sometimes cause pain and ultimately affect your child’s daily activities. If this happens, the condition is probably hereditary, and you should take your child to visit your podiatrist as soon as possible. 

3. Developmental issues. Out-toeing (the feet point outward while walking), toe walking (the child walks on the balls of their feet or their toes), and in-toeing (the feet point inward when walking), are some of the most common types of these conditions. If these symptoms don’t change by early childhood, they can develop into other problems as they continue to age.

Signs and Symptoms:

We find that children who are experiencing foot problems may not always know how to tell others what they are feeling; however, some non-verbal cues may suggest that something is wrong. This may be the case if your child:

• Can’t keep up with others, especially when running.
• They no longer want to engage in activities they normally enjoy. 
• Falls or trips frequently, particularly when running. 
• Complaints of pain in their lower extremities. 
• Avoids showing you their feet.

You should also keep an eye on your child’s walking gait patterns to see if their feet are pointing outward or inward when walking and see if they keep walking on their toes after the first 2-3 months.

The bottom line is that you should always seek professional care when your child is experiencing any type of foot or ankle pain. As they are still growing and developing, all issues need to be addressed right away to prevent any long-lasting problems.

If your child is experiencing any issues with their feet or ankles we’re here to help! Contact the office of  Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA today at (425) 455-0936 to schedule your child’s next appointment.