A foot doctor diagnoses and treats conditions related to the feet and lower limbs, such as foot fractures, ingrown toenails, and Achilles tendonitis. When working with children, a foot doctor will help promote proper growth and address any issues before they worsen. Here are six reasons why children may need to visit a foot doctor:
1. Abnormal Walking Patterns
As they learn to walk, some children develop abnormalities like walking on their toes, favoring one foot, or limping. Such abnormalities can indicate an underlying problem with the feet, ankles, or legs. Walking on toes may be due to a tight calf muscle or Achilles tendon while limping can be caused by an injury or infection.
A foot doctor recognizes such patterns and establishes potential causes of the issue. After observing the child’s gait and conducting a detailed examination, the podiatrist will make a diagnosis and suggest a course of action. Some treatment options involve physical therapy, corrective exercises, or surgery. Abnormal gait should be addressed early to prevent further complications and to support proper growth and development in children.
