Children's Foot Care - So Simple

It's important to pay close attention to children’s feet and seek medical attention if you notice any changes or problems. Children engage in regular physical activity so they need to take care of their feet to avoid pain and discomfort. Proper children’s foot care includes wearing proper footwear, keeping feet clean and dry, and regular exercise that helps ensure the feet develop properly and remain healthy.By taking care of a child’s feet you maintain good foot health, which can prevent future problems and improve overall health.Encourage Physical Activity in Children they are more likely to continue with these habits as they grow older. 

 

Promote good habits by teaching children foot care habits at an early age, they can develop habits that will serve them well throughout their lives.Proper foot care can encourage children to participate in physical activity without being held back by foot pain or discomfort.

Why is child foot care important?

1. Children are still growing and developing, and it is vital to ensure that the feet are developing properly.
2. Children's feet are naturally more flexible than adult feet, which can make them susceptible to injury.
3. Children's foot shape is wider and flatter than an adult’s foot, which can affect their gait and balance.
4. Children's feet grow rapidly changing the foot size and the foot size needs to be measured regularly to ensure that they have shoes that fit properly.
5. They are more prone to foot problems such as blisters, warts, foot odor, and fungal infections.

Children’s Foot Care Tips

These steps will ensure that your child's feet develop properly and remain healthy:

1. Proper shoe selection: Shoes should fit properly, with enough room for the toes to wiggle, and provide good support for the feet. Make sure to have your child's feet measured regularly for a proper fit as they grow.
2.  Foot hygiene: Teach your child to wash their feet regularly with soap and water and keep them dry. Encourage them to change their socks regularly, particularly if they are active.
3.  Toenail care: Teach your child how to properly trim their toenails straight across, avoiding cutting them too short to prevent ingrown toenails.
4. Stretching and exercise: Encourage your child to stretch their feet and legs regularly and engage in exercises that strengthen the muscles and improve flexibility.
5. Teach your child how to protect their feet while playing, walking, jumping, and engaging in physical activities. Teach children the danger of stepping on sharp objects and uneven surfaces. 
6.   Regular check-ups: Take your child to a podiatrist for regular check-ups to ensure the feet are developing properly and identify any potential problems early.
7. Encourage your child to wear appropriate footwear for different activities, such as sneakers for running and flip-flops for the beach.

Children’s foot care issues can be very uncomfortable to live with. If they are experiencing pain in their foot or ankle, contact the podiatrist at DeNiel Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor provides care to keep them pain-free and on their feet.