The pediatric podiatrists at Ankle & Foot Associates are well-trained to diagnosis and treat foot and ankle disorders that affect children. Children with strong, healthy feet often avoid many foot and ankle complications later in life.
It’s important to monitor the size and shape of children’s feet, even during the infancy stage. Babies’ feet change quickly during their first year. Because a baby's feet are flexible, too much pressure or strain can affect their feet's shape. It's essential to allow a baby to kick and stretch his or her feet. Infants should not wear shoes and socks that squeeze their toes. If you have suspicions about irregular foot development, contact a pediatric podiatrist with Ankle & Foot Associates.
As babies develop into toddlers, the progress and care of their feet is still vital. Parents or guardians should not force toddlers to walk before they are ready. Once a toddler begins walking, careful observation should be made of their movement. Many toddlers have a pigeon-toe style of walking, and this is normal. Most children outgrow the problem. However, if a toddler's toe touches down instead of the heel, or they always sits while others play, contact Ankle & Foot Associates to speak with a pediatric podiatrist.
The foot's bone structure is well-formed by the time a child reaches age 7 or 8, but if a growth plate (the area where bone growth begins) is injured, the damaged plate may cause the bone to grow oddly. With a pediatric podiatrist’s care, the risk of future bone problems is reduced.
Below are some basic foot care tips from the pediatric podiatrists at Ankle & Foot Associates:
Pediatric podiatrists with Ankle & Foot Associates are highly skilled to provide superior
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