Common Foot Problems In Children

The following article is brought to you by Sunfeet International. Sunfeet International Rehab Centre offers a range of rehab services and orthotic, prosthetic products. One of their main products is prescription customized orthotic Insoles and shoes. 

Sunfeet International is currently having a back to school promotion for their Sunfeet healthy school shoes range which offer support, stability and comfort for kids who have to be on their feet all day in school.


Common Foot Problems Parents Need To Know

We never really think too much about our feet even though they play such an important role in our daily life allowing us to stand, walk and run freely. Proper foot care is important because problems that go untreated may affect our knees, hips and spine. As parents it is important for us to care for our children's feet and to take notice of any issues they may face but just how do we know if they are having problems with their feet?

Below are some of the common foot problems in children and a short description of what they are.

• Flatfeet is a condition when children's feet do not develop arches when they grow which may be treated by arch support custom made insoles in shoes. Normally flatfoot disappears by age 5. Between age 6-10 a flexible flatfoot which does not go away may require orthotics. Beyond age 10 flatfood may be permanent where long-term use of orthotics may then be required.
• Toe Walking literally means walking on toes. If toe walking is persistent in older kids, it may indicate nervous system problems like cerebral palsy or autism. Stretching exercises or casting of the foot and ankle may be required.
• Pigeon Toes or In-Toeing is the tendency to walk with feet turned inward in an intoeing gait causing children to trip often. Special shoes and braces may sometimes be used to give more support and comfort.
• Bowlegs is an exaggerated outward curve of the legs at the knees giving it the appearance of an archer's bow.
• Knock-Knees is when legs curved inwards at the knees causing the knees to knock together.
• Server's Decease is a not a decease but rather a heel injury. It is a common condition in children aged between 8-12 years old. The condition is common in active kids during growth spurts. Repetitive stress to the heel may cause strain and pain in the heel. If your child is having foot pains, you may be confused on whether there is some issue that needs to be addressed or is it growing up pains.

Before and After Orthotics

What To Do If You Suspect A Problem

Many of the common foot problems go away as they grow. However, some others don't. Early intervention helps. It will also help your peace of mind to get your children's feet evaluated by specialists.

What Do You Call A Doctor Who Specializes In Feet And Other Terms You Should Know

• A Podiatrist is a specialist who studies, gives diagnosis and treatment for problems in foot, ankle and lower extremities
• A Pedorthist is a specialist trained to provide modified footwear and supportive devices for conditions affecting the feet and lower limbs
• Orthotic is a brace used to support or correct the function of movable parts of the body including feet, knee, wrist or neck. Shoe inserts are a form of orthotics used for a range of foot problems. Sunfeet provides affordable and effective Orthotic and Prosthetic solutions. Orthotics can be worn in standard children's shoes or sports shoes. Specialists on board provide professional consultation and correction to mobility training and confidence building for their patients.
• Prosthetics is the custom fitting of artificial limbs to replace a missing body part.
• Physiotherapy helps restore movement and function. Sunfeet provides physiotherapy treatment for Scoliosis, Flat foot, shoulder pain , lower back pain and knee pain
• Scoliosis is a condition that causes the spine to curve sideways.

Sunfeet International Rehabilitation Center is located at Block C, 18, Jalan 19/1 Sekseyn 19, 46300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor.