Every parent wants their child to grow up with healthy feet. Here are the most common developmental and health problems that can affect your child’s feet and what to do about them…
Toddlers tend to walk flat-footed with a waddling gait until around three
years old when they start using the heel-toe step. ‘At around two when a
child is becoming more active, the foot matures and the arch starts to develop,’
explains Diana Canning, chiropodist and chairperson of the Foot Health Council.
‘However if flat-footedness persists beyond six or seven, see a chiropodist
for advice.’
In-toeing and out-toeing
Walking with the toes facing inwards (pigeon-toed) or outwards can make
your child trip up more. Most cases will correct themselves as your child
becomes a more confident walker but seek advice from your health visitor
or GP if the problem persists, especially if it only seems to affect one
foot. ‘Something that’s very evident should be checked out, if only for
your own peace of mind,’ says Diana.
Athlete’s foot
A common fungal infection, athlete’s foot is usually found in between the toes, where it thrives in the warm, damp conditions
and causes a red, itchy, moist rash. It’s unusual in babies and toddlers, and drying properly after baths and swimming is the best prevention. Check in between the toes regularly and see your GP if you suspect any infection.
Blisters
Often caused by ill-fitting shoes or socks when the material rubs against
the skin on the foot. ‘Young children can’t or don’t often complain about
their shoes hurting so they may get blisters without you realising,’ says
Diana. Have your child’s shoes rechecked in case the size and shape size
has altered. In warm weather, leave shoes and socks off as long as the ground
is safe and clean.
Hand, foot and mouth infection
This viral infection causes blistering on the hands, soles of the feet and
around the mouth. It usually resolves itself within a few days and doesn’t
require any treatment. Use infant paracetamol if your child has a slight
fever.
Nail problems
Parents often cut their children’s nails wrongly which can lead to problems later on such as ingrowing toenails. ‘Get your partner to hold the child on their knee so you can sit in front of them to cut their toenails. And make sure you cut straight across, rather than at an angle,’
advises Diana.
Verrucas
These small warts only affect the feet and often have a black speck in their
centre. Rare in babies, older children are prone to verrucas as they haven’t
yet developed immunity to the virus that causes them. Most GPs tend to leave
them alone as most disappear within two years but, as they’re highly contagious,
chiropodists may treat with non-acidic preparations suitable for young children.
‘A child with verrucas should also have their own towel and bathmat to avoid
infecting other members of the family,’ says Diana.
Where to next?
- Back to main article
- Is your child ill? Use our diagnostic chart or ask a babyworld expert for advice
- Talk about health and development issues with other parents, join
a chat room or participate on our discussion boards
