Foot and ankle problems are something we associate with older adults, but there is no age limit on podiatry issues. Far more often than parents realize, children are struggling with foot pain and irregularities. And because we often don’t think about these problems in children, it can be hard to catch them.
However, if you know what to look for, you will be able to notice problems before they get serious. Here are three sneaky signs of a foot problem in kids you should watch for.
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Your Child Struggles with Physical Activity
Foot and ankle problems aren’t just for adults. Kids often have irregularities and pain that need treatment.Have you ever noticed that your child runs and plays slower than other kids? While this can just be part of who your child is, it could also indicate foot and ankle problems. Conditions such as flat feet can tire out the muscles in the lower limbs very quickly.
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Your Child Is Hiding Their Feet
Another sign that your child has a foot problem is if they are hiding their feet from you. Oftentimes, children will notice things like changes in the nails or skin before we do. If they think it is strange, rather than asking for help, they might hide it by always wearing socks in front of you.
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Your Child Trips and Falls Often
Hey, some kids are just clumsy, but if yours falls a lot, it is a good idea to rule out physical causes. Foot and ankle conditions can negatively impact balance, causing your child to trip and fall more often than others.
Do you suspect your child might have an undiagnosed foot condition? Let the Shady Grove Podiatry team help. Call us at 301-948-2995 or head over to our contact page to schedule a consultation.
