There is no guarantee that foot problems noticed during or after your child's birth will correct themselves. There is simply no need to wait until the child begins walking to take care of a problem you've noticed earlier. Upon detection, it is beneficial to seek medical attention while the child is a toddler to ensure a better response to conservative treatment options.
- Remember that lack of complaint by a child is not a reliable sign. The bones of growing feet are so flexible that they can be twisted and distorted without the child being aware of it.
- Walking is the best of all foot exercises, according to pediatric physicians, they also recommend carefully observing walking patterns. Does the child toe in or out, or have knock knees or other gait abnormalities? These problems can be corrected if they are detected early.
- Excluding infants, children should not go barefoot. Walking barefoot on dirty pavement exposes your child's feet to a variety of dangers including sprains, fractures and infection from wounds. Another potential problem is plantar warts, a condition caused by a virus that invades the sole of the foot through cuts and breaks in the skin.
- Be careful about applying home remedies to children's feet. Preparation strong enough to kill certain types of fungus can harm the skin.
Five Shoe-Buying Tips for Children:
- Take your child when shopping for shoes. Every shoe fits differently. So before buying shoes, it is necessary to have your child's feet measured. Letting your child have a say in the shoe buying process promotes healthy foot habits down the road.
- Feet tend to swell during the day, which makes it the best time to shop for shoes.
- Get shoes that don't need a "break-in" period. Your child should feel comfortable as soon as they wear the shoes.
- Always buy a size larger. Children's feet grow faster and they are seldom exactly the same size.
- If the shoes are to be usually worn with socks or tights, have your child try on shoes wearing those.
