Children's Foot Problems

When Should a Child's Feet Be Checked?

Dr. Ross is often asked: "When is the best time to have my child's feet checked?" His answer is as early as possible — and if it is a breech birth, before the child's head comes out!

Children's feet are pliable and highly responsive to treatment. Most conditions that are correctable with simple, non-surgical techniques in infancy or early childhood may require surgery — or become permanent — if left unaddressed. Early evaluation costs little and can prevent a lifetime of foot problems.

Common Conditions in Babies and Newborns

• Curved feet (metatarsus adductus) — the front part of the foot curves inward; common in newborns and often resolves with stretching, though severe cases may need casting
• Clubfoot (talipes equinovarus) — a complex deformity where the foot is turned inward and downward at birth; highly treatable with the Ponseti casting method when begun in the first weeks of life
• Calcaneal valgus — the foot is bent sharply upward and outward; usually resolves with gentle stretching exercises
• Equinus (toe walking) — persistent toe walking beyond age 2–3 should be evaluated for tight Achilles tendon or neurological causes
• Crooked or overlapping toes — often improves with gentle manipulation and taping in infancy
• Ingrown toenails — even newborns can develop ingrown nails; professional care is gentle and effective

Common Conditions in Older Children

• Intoeing (pigeon-toed gait) — can stem from the foot, shin, or hip; the cause determines the treatment and most cases improve with age and orthotics
• Flatfeet (pes planus) — most young children appear flat-footed as the arch develops; arches typically form by age 6, but pain or rigid flatfeet warrant evaluation
• Bunions — yes, children can develop bunions; adolescent bunions tend to progress and benefit from early orthotic management
• Sever's disease — heel pain in active children aged 8–14, caused by inflammation at the growth plate in the heel; very common in young athletes and highly treatable
• Plantar warts — viral skin growths on the sole; require professional treatment
• Ingrown toenails — particularly common in teens who cut nails incorrectly or wear tight athletic shoes

Our Approach to Pediatric Foot Care

We understand that bringing a child to a podiatrist can feel daunting. Our physicians are experienced in working with patients of all ages, and we prioritize non-surgical treatment whenever possible. For most pediatric conditions, the least invasive approach — stretching, orthotics, shoe modification, or simple observation — is tried first, with excellent results.

We invite you to call us for a checkup for you and your baby or child. A free initial examination is available for new patients — there is no cost to getting peace of mind about your child's foot health.