Pediatric Conditions

Children with symptomatic flat feet may display one or more of the following symptoms:

• An outward tilt at the heel
• Changes to gait or awkwardness when walking
• Difficulty moving the foot from side to side or up and down
• Feeling pain or tenderness anywhere from the foot to the knee
• Pain or difficulty when wearing shoes
• Withdrawing from physical activities

Pediatric flat feet can also be a symptom of pediatric foot conditions which can cause your child to have an inward rolling of the ankles, also known as Hyperpronation. Left untreated, this can lead to a myriad of other symptoms including flat feet, foot pain, back pain, knee pain, hip pain, bunions and hammertoe.

To diagnose pediatric foot conditions, the podiatrist examines your child’s foot, looking for differences in its appearance when your child stands versus when he or she sits. In addition, the doctor tests the child’s range of motion and watches him or her walk. To determine the underlying cause, your podiatrist may also examine the lower leg and possibly up to the hip.

If your childs conditions are becoming worse you can always bring them in for pediatric conditions in Adrain, MI. We also provide treatments for pediatric conditions in Ann Arbor, MI.

If your child’s condition is symptomatic and requires treatment, there are various nonsurgical options available.

• Medication: If your child experiences pain and/or inflammation, over-the-counter medications may be prescribed to manage discomfort.
• Modify activity levels: There may need to be a temporary decrease in activities that cause your child foot pain. Your child may also need to avoid prolonged periods of standing or walking.
• Orthotics: A custom orthotic fitted inside your child’s shoe helps support structure and improve function.
• Physical therapy: Your pediatric podiatrist may supervise special stretching exercises, particularly when issues with the Achilles tendon cause the condition.
• Proper footwear: The doctor should advise you on proper footwear for a child with flat feet.

• While toddlers are still learning to walk, let them go barefoot or wear only socks. Shoes will inhibit their feet and toes growth.
• Always ensure that your kid is wearing the appropriate shoe size. Their feet grow incredibly fast, so regularly check.
• Select shoes that are a little bit bigger than their feet to allow room for growth.
• If your child is into sports, make sure they warm up before physical activity and cool down afterward.
• Encourage them to stretch and do exercises to strengthen their calf muscles.