 Sore points - common foot problems
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...
Flat feet
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.
By Melanie Deeprose
Where to next?
|
