At What Age Should My Child See a Podiatrist?
Foot problems can affect people of all ages, from infants to geriatric patients. When it comes to your infant or toddler, it may not cross your mind to take them to the podiatrist, but early recognition and treatment of common childhood foot problems can mean better healing and faster recovery for your child.
While some foot issues, such as clubfoot, are seen at birth, most foot problems in children are discovered later by the pediatrician. Any problems usually appear in the early walking stages, about one to three years old. Different conditions will present with varying signs and symptoms. While a pediatrician can recognize when something is wrong, it takes a podiatrist to accurately diagnose and effectively treat foot problems in babies, toddlers, and children.
One common issue presenting in kids is pediatric flatfoot. The arch develops during childhood, usually by age two. Parents not seeing an arch after this time should take their child to a podiatrist. Kids can also develop ingrown toenails when they start wearing shoes (and especially as they outgrow them).
While many children slowly grow out of gait issues such a toe-walking or pigeon-toeing, parents may need to seek treatment from a podiatrist if the issue does not resolve or the child begins complaining of pain. Foot pain is never healthy in children.
Other indications you should take your child to the podiatrist include:
- Your child trips and falls very often
- Your child is at risk for genetic foot conditions
- Your child has a hard time keeping up with other children
- Your child is reluctant to show you their feet
- Your child complains of ANY foot pain
While many childhood foot ailments are easily treatable, delayed healing or lack of action could lead to future foot problems and pain during development. It’s never too early to have your child visit the podiatrist. Call the FAAWC today to schedule your pediatric appointment!
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