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Best Foot Forward
Healthy Feet Matter to Children
By Kelly Burgess
- Limping
- A child not participating at the level that is normal for their age or grade range because their legs get tired
- Any discrepancy between the feet, such as one foot turning out more than the other or one foot flatter than the other
While the parent needs to start being vigilant when the child is about 4 years old, that doesn't mean that foot problems can't occur or start beyond that point. Here is a list of common foot problems that can occur through adolescence.
Flat Feet
Thomas co-authored a study recommending new clinical practice guidelines for diagnosis and treatment of pediatric flatfoot. Usually, he says, flatfoot – also known as flexible flatfoot – isn't a problem and often resolves itself by age 10 or 12. However, it should be evaluated and monitored both to be sure it resolves itself and to be sure that it is not causing the child any foot or leg pain or causing the child to adjust his gait, which can lead to other problems. Treatment is usually pretty simple and is merely a question of the proper arch support, unless it does not resolve itself. In the latter case, surgery may be indicated. 
Heel Pain
Also referred to as Sever's Disease, heel pain is very common in children aged 8 to 12. King says they see more and more of this condition now that it's become common for children to do a sport 12 months of the year. Depending upon the severity, a hiatus from sports may be necessary to give it a rest. This is most commonly seen in boys, but as girls become more active in athletics, theyare also presenting with more foot problems. King also points out that the habit of putting one's shoes on without untying them is stressful for the foot and heel and should be avoided.