Paediatric podiatry is a specialized branch of podiatry focused on the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of foot and lower limb problems in children. Children’s feet are still developing, so early detection and management of issues can prevent long-term complications and support healthy growth.
Book Now1. Assessment and Diagnosis
• Foot posture and alignment: flat feet (pes planus), high arches (pes cavus), or other deformities.
• Gait analysis: identifying abnormal walking patterns such as in-toeing, out-toeing, or toe walking.
• Leg length and joint function: checking for differences that may affect posture or gait.
• Skin and nail assessment: calluses, corns, fungal infections, or ingrown nails.
• Muscle strength and flexibility: evaluating tightness or weakness in calves, ankles, or feet.
2. Common Conditions Treated
• Flat feet or high arches
• In-toeing or out-toeing
• Toe walking
• Sever’s disease (heel pain in growing children)
• Ingrown toenails
• Warts (verrucae)
• Gait abnormalities related to developmental conditions (e.g., cerebral palsy, developmental coordination disorder)
• Foot pain due to sports or activity
3. Management and Treatment
• Orthotics: custom or prefabricated insoles to correct alignment or provide support.
• Footwear advice: guidance on proper shoes for development and activity.
• Exercises: stretching, strengthening, or balance activities for foot and lower limb muscles.
• Taping or padding: to relieve pressure or correct minor deformities.
• Education: teaching parents about foot hygiene and injury prevention.
4. Preventive Care
• Monitoring growth and development to detect early problems.
• Advising on activity levels, footwear choices, and safe play.
• Encouraging proper foot hygiene to prevent infections or skin issues.
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🔹 When to Refer a Child to a Paediatric Podiatrist
• Persistent foot or heel pain
• Abnormal gait or posture
• Recurrent ingrown toenails or warts
• Rapid changes in foot structure
• Participation in sports with foot pain or overuse injuries
• Suspected congenital or developmental foot deformities
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💡 Key Point: Paediatric podiatry is about supporting healthy growth and development of the foot while preventing problems that could persist into adulthood. Early assessment and intervention are crucial for optimal long-term outcomes.
