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

Is your child experiencing foot discomfort or are you concerned about their foot development? Don’t wait for small issues to become big problems. Schedule a consultation with our experienced pediatric podiatrists today. We’re here to ensure your child’s feet stay happy and healthy as they grow. Call us now or book an appointment online to give your child the gift of healthy feet!