Common Problems and Anxieties with Children’s Feet…by Julia Franklin
Parents are often concerned because their baby appears to be walking flat-footed. In the early stages of development this is quite normal and gives them a more stable base until the legs and feet have gained strength. If the flat-footedness appears to persist in a young child to the age of 5 or 6 and is apparently causing problems, consult your Podiatrist who will be able to advise whether appropriate exercises or corrective insoles might be indicated.
Toeing in and toeing out can sometimes cause problems. If your child seems to trip over rather more than normally, then observe them walking and see if they appear to be toeing in. If they do so, consult an expert to correct this either by exercises, a corrective insole or a simple modification to the shoe. Sometimes these difficulties lie in a variation in hip development and referral to a Paediatrician or Orthopaedic Consultant may be indicated.
Signs to look out for if the child needs more foot support:
- can only walk short distances before complaining
- tripping or seems clumsy
- complains of aching legs
Your Podiatrist will be able to offer appropriate advice.
With regard to footwear, it is worth noting that leather shoes take on the shape of the foot so you should never hand them down to another child for whom that shape may be quite unsuitable and may even cause harm.
