Children’s Foot Pain: What to Watch For
Is Your Child Complaining About Foot Pain? Don’t Ignore the Signs - Have you noticed your child limping, avoiding sports, or constantly removing their shoes? While some parents chalk it up to growing pains, persistent foot or ankle discomfort in children is not something to ignore. Over the past few years, podiatrists have seen a steady increase in pediatric visits due to foot-related issues—and early care can make all the difference.
Children’s feet are still developing, and many problems that start small can become serious without timely treatment. Whether it's pain, swelling, or changes in how your child walks, a professional evaluation can help uncover underlying issues and lead to long-term relief.
Here are six of the most common foot and ankle conditions we treat in children:
Flat Feet - Flat feet are common in young children, but if the arch doesn’t develop aFlat Feets they grow, it can lead to discomfort and mobility problems. Watch for signs like awkward walking, fatigue during play, or complaints of foot, ankle, or knee pain. Custom orthotics, supportive shoes, and physical therapy are often effective in helping your child stay comfortable and active.
Heel Pain (Sever’s Disease) - Heel pain in kids, especially between ages 8 and 14, is often linked to Sever’s disease—an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel. It tends to show up during growth spurts and sports seasons. If your child limps after activity or avoids putting weight on one heel, this may be the cause. Rest, stretching, and proper footwear typically provide relief.
Ingrown Toenails - Tight-fitting shoes, incorrect nail trimming, and even inherited nail shape can cause painful ingrown toenails. Left untreated, they may lead to infection. If your child’s toe is red, swollen, or tender, professional treatment can safely remove the problem nail and prevent recurrence.
Plantar Warts - Warts on the bottom of the feet are caused by a contagious virus and can be uncomfortable for children, especially when walking or running. These stubborn lesions are often resistant to over-the-counter treatments. In-office care from a podiatrist helps eliminate the wart and reduce the chance of it spreading.
Shin Splints - Young athletes who run or jump frequently may develop shin splints—pain along the front of the lower leg due to muscle strain. If your child complains of aching legs during or after sports, rest, ice, and shoe inserts may be needed to correct the underlying issue and allow healing.
Toe Walking - Occasional toe walking is common in toddlers, but if your child continues to walk on their toes past age 2 or 3, it may signal a tight Achilles tendon or neurological concern. Persistent toe walking should always be evaluated by a specialist, as early intervention can improve walking patterns and prevent long-term complications.
Early Care Makes a Big Difference
At Podiatry Foot & Ankle Institute, Dr. Edward Harris and Dr. Adam Rozenstrauch provide compassionate, expert care tailored to children’s growing feet.
If your child is experiencing foot or ankle discomfort, don’t wait—early diagnosis and treatment can prevent more serious issues down the road. Podiatry Foot & Ankle Institute is conveniently located in Hackensack and Fort Lee, New Jersey.
Call (201) 488-3668 today or schedule a visit online. Healthy feet help kids stay active, confident, and pain-free!
