Foot and ankle problems in children often go unnoticed. Signs and symptoms can be subtle, and sometimes children can’t explain what’s wrong. But it’s important to protect growing feet and have problems checked out early. If your child shows any of the following symptoms, make an appointment with our office for an examination.

Your kids can’t keep up with their peers.

We’ve found that if a child lags behind in sports or backyard play, it may be because of tired feet or legs. 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.

Children voluntarily withdraw from activities they usually enjoy.

If they are reluctant to participate, it may be due to heel pain &mash; a problem we often see 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 a child’s heel.

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 office. Make it a habit to inspect your child’s feet starting at a young age. Any changes, such as calluses, growths, skin discoloration, or redness and swelling around the toenails warrant a visit to our office.

Your child often trips and falls.

Repeated clumsiness may be a sign of in-toeing, balance problems or neuromuscular conditions. We can evaluate your child’s feet and legs to help determine the cause of the problem.

Your child complains of pain.

Remember, 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.