5 Most Common Pediatric Foot Issues and How We Treat Them

Pediatric foot issues are common and can significantly impact a child’s overall well-being. Many foot and ankle problems affect your child’s mobility and comfort.

The dedicated team of experts at Washington Foot & Ankle Sports Medicine specializes in diagnosing and treating pediatric foot conditions. Let’s discuss the five most common pediatric foot issues we encounter and how we treat them.

1. Flat feet

Flat feet is a condition where the arch of the foot is collapsed or non-existent. Flat feet is common in children and usually resolves on its own without treatment, but flat feet may cause pain or difficulty walking. 

If your child has discomfort from flat feet our medical team customizes a treatment plan that may recommend supportive shoes, orthotic inserts, or physical therapy exercises to alleviate symptoms and help promote proper foot alignment.

2. Ingrown toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. Ingrown toenails are often caused by trimming the nails too short but may also result from wearing shoes that are too tight or from injury.  

If your child has an ingrown toenail, our team will carefully evaluate the severity of the condition. Typical treatments are conservative and may include warm foot soaks or antibiotics if an infection is present. More severe cases of ingrown toenails may require minor surgical procedures to remove the ingrown portion of the nail.

3. Sever’s disease

Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in children that results from repetitive stress on the growth plate at the heel bone. Overusing the heel is common in children who participate in sports activities or exercise regularly and may result in an inflamed, painful heel.

Treatment for Sever’s disease is usually a combination of rest, stretching exercises, shoe modifications, and orthotic inserts designed to relieve pain and promote healing. In more severe cases, our team will immobilize your child’s foot with a cast or boot to give the foot time to heal properly.

4. Plantar warts

Warts can occur at any age but are more common in children than adults. Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and commonly appear on the soles of the feet. Left untreated, plantar warts on the feet can be painful and may multiply.

 Our team will assess the size and location of the warts and may suggest various treatment options, including topical medications, cryotherapy (freezing), or laser therapy. Regular monitoring and follow-up visits are essential to ensure complete resolution.

5. Sports injuries

Children participating in sports are at a greater risk of foot and ankle injuries. About 30 million children participate in organized sports in the United States, and more than 3.5 million injuries occur annually.

Ankle sprains, stress fractures, and Achilles tendonitis are common sports injuries that can affect a child’s mobility and athletic performance. These sports injuries can cause long-term consequences if left untreated. 

Our team specializes in sports medicine and provides comprehensive care, including accurate diagnosis, customized treatment plans, and rehabilitation strategies to help young athletes recover and return to their favorite sports activities as soon as possible.

Pediatric foot issues can significantly impact your child’s daily life, affecting their mobility, comfort, and overall well-being. At Washington Foot & Ankle Sports Medicine in Kirkland, our experienced medical team is dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care for pediatric foot conditions. 

If your child is experiencing foot or ankle problems, we are here to help. Schedule an appointment with our team today to ensure your child receives the best care possible for their growing feet.