Pediatric Podiatry = Healthy Growth!
Podiatrists wear many hats. At Knight Foot and Ankle, we know this firsthand. On any given day, you’ll find our team treating sports injuries, restoring mobility and balance to active seniors, or resolving complications that arise due to diabetes. These are different needs presented by unique patients, but all of them can be managed by the same foot and ankle specialist.
However, there is one aspect of our services that we wish more people would avail themselves of: Pediatric podiatry! That’s why the blog below will cover all the ins and outs of why your child's foot health might deserve a podiatrist’s attention.
Beyond "Just Growing Out of It"
Children's feet are constantly changing, and sometimes those changes can cause discomfort.
Flat feet, in-toeing (pigeon-toed gait), or out-toeing can all be signs of underlying conditions.
A 2021 study published in the Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association (JAPMA) found that unaddressed in-toeing in children can lead to long-term hip issues [1].
The good news? Early intervention by a podiatrist can help prevent these complications and ensure proper development.
Don't Let Deformities Hold You Back!
Conditions like ingrown toenails, bunions, or hammertoes can not only be painful for children but also limit their activity level and affect their self-esteem.
Podiatrists can provide treatment options ranging from custom orthotics to minimally invasive surgery to address these deformities and keep your child comfortably active.
Early Detection is Key
Even seemingly minor issues like frequent tripping or difficulty keeping up with friends during playtime can be signs of a problem.
Podiatrists are trained to identify these subtle clues and diagnose conditions like Sever's disease (heel pain) or Osgood-Schlatter disease (knee pain) in their early stages.
As always, early intervention can reduce pain and prevent complications down the road.
If your child exhibits any of the conditions or symptoms named above, there’s one step to take that matters more than all the rest: Consulting your local podiatrist! A DPM can provide the clarity and comfort you’re looking for, so don’t walk it off. Instead, get in touch!
Contact Chad Knight, DPM at Knight Foot & Ankle in Edmond and Jones, OK, to schedule a consultation. You can call us at (405) 513-0385 or click here to schedule your visit online.
