An important reminder: young children may not always have the words—or the inclination—to tell you when something is wrong. So you’ll have to keep a careful eye on them and watch for worrying signs about the way they walk or how they respond to activities. For example, shying away from play or frequent requests to be carried could indicate foot pain.
Adolescents and Teen Foot Care
As kids grow up, they often get more aggressive with their play or pick up multiple sports. This can lead to a raft of common sports injuries, such as ankle sprains, muscle strains, broken bones, and the like.
Children who develop heel pain generally do so not as a result of plantar fasciitis (which is the most common form of heel pain in adults) but due to an injury to the growth plate in the heel known as Sever’s disease. This “plate” is exposed while children are still growing, and is softer and more susceptible to injury than mature bone. This is a very common condition that can usually be resolved wth simple, non-surgical treatments.
Teenagers can also develop bunions. Since kids usually aren’t wearing a lot of high heels or have a few decades of wear and tear, bunion development in people so young generally indicates an underlying issue with biomechanics.
Comprehensive Care Options for Children's Feet in Lee's Summit
Our office takes its commitment to the highest quality pediatric foot care seriously. When you visit us, you can expect that we’ll take all the time needed to fully listen to you and your child. We’ll explain their condition and treatment options (if any are recommended) compassionately, respectfully, and in terms that everyone can understand. We strive to make our environment as calm and warm as possible!
We offer a wide variety of care options, such as medications, bracing, orthotic devices, stretching, special shoes, and more. Dr. Joel Foster is also an excellent surgeon and can provide more aggressive forms of care when absolutely necessary.
