Foot and ankle problems in children can very easily go unnoticed. Signs and symptoms can often be subtle, parents unaware of anything wrong and of course children themselves are sometimes unable to speak or express themselves. It is important to look after growing feet, protect them and to get them checked out early.
The five warning signs parents should look out for
1: Your Children Can’t Keep Up with Their Peers
If Children lag behind in sports, it may be because their feet and legs are very tired. Fatigue is common when children have flat feet. The muscles in the feet and legs tire easily because the feet are not functioning as well as they should.
2: Children Voluntarily Withdraw from Activities they Usually Enjoy
If they are reluctanct to particpate in activities, it may be due to heel pain – a problem often seen in children between the ages of 8 and 14. Repetitive stress from sports may cause muscle strain and inflammation of the growth plate, a weak area at the back of your child’s heel.
3:They Don’t Want to Show You Their Feet.
Children may feel pain or notice a change in the appearance of their feet or nails but don’t tell their parents because they fear a trip to the doctor’s. Make a habit of inspecting your child’s feet starting at a young age. Look for any changes such as calluses, growths, skin discolouration, or redness or swelling around the toenails.
4: Your Child Often Trips and Falls
Repeated clumsiness may be a sign of intoeing, balance problems or neuromuscular conditions.
5: The Child Complains of Pain
It is never normal for a child to have foot pain. Injuries may seem minor, but if pain or swelling last more than a few days, have your child’s foot examined.