The Importance of Proper Footwear

Ensure your child’s shoes fit well. They are growing at a rapid pace and sometimes this could mean going through several shoe sizes in a year! Have a conversation with your child next time while shoe shopping to help them understand that their toes should have wiggle room, and that the shoe shouldn’t be too tight or too loose.

Foot Health Education

Some kids have flat feet, it can be common and that improves over time but important to get it evaluated as it can lead to muscle aches and strain. Educate them about arch support and elements of a quality shoe. Learning about different shoe types is equally important as learning how to tie laces – help your little ones identify why it’s important to wear good sneakers, or why snow season requires boots, or why beach time means sandals.

Foot Hygiene: A Key to Healthy Feet

Wash your child’s feet daily with soap and water, paying special attention to the areas between the toes – unattended bacteria can tend to proliferate in those warm moist intertoe webspaces. Thorough drying fee is also important for that reason, that moisture especially between the toes is important to clean to prevent fungal infections like athlete’s foot. Change socks daily, especially after sweating or getting wet. For teens puberty changes could lead to excessive sweating of the hands and feet – they may require sock changes 2-3x a day!

Poolside Health Tips

Avoid Barefoot Walking! Discourage your kids from barefoot walking in public areas to prevent infections and injuries. Stress the importance of wearing flip-flops or water shoes in public pool areas to minimize the risk of plantar warts. Warts are also commonly spread during other barefoot activities such as gymnastics and karate – ask if thin grippy socks are appropriate for traction during their activities. If not permitted, be sure to thoroughly scrub/rinse down the soles of your child’s feet to prevent invasion of plantar warts.

Keep Your Child’s Feet Happy and Healthy

At PS Foot and Ankle in Bridgewater, NJ, we care for the whole family’s foot health, from children’s developing feet to adult foot and ankle conditions.

Concerned about your child’s foot health? Our pediatric podiatrists provide expert care to keep their feet healthy and happy. Experiencing foot pain yourself? Our team diagnoses and treats a wide range of foot and ankle problems, helping you stay active and comfortable.

Don’t ignore foot discomfort. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing long-term complications. Schedule a consultation with our experienced Bridgewater podiatrists today and take the first step towards healthier feet for you and your family.

Call us now or book online – your journey to better foot health starts here!