Pain in children's feet may be indicative of growing pains, or underlying medical conditions, and it is important to take notice if your child complains of general aches in their feet. Many young children are active and enjoy participating in running and jumping activities. This may cause sprains, fractures, or injuries to occur. Children who frequent public swimming pools and surrounding areas may get athlete’s foot, which is a fungal infection. Additionally, the medical condition that is known as Sever’s disease can affect the growth plate in the heel in young children, and may cause severe pain and discomfort. Occasionally, children may get bunions, and this can be caused by genetic factors or from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. It is suggested that your child is diagnosed by a podiatrist, who can properly manage existing foot pain.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Lee R. Stein of Lake Shore Foot & Ankle, PC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Chicago, Highland Park, and Uptown, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.