What to Know About Your Child’s Feet During School
As kids head back to school, their feet are about to get a workout. From walking between classes to running around at recess, joining sports teams, and even standing for long periods, your child’s feet carry a lot of responsibility. While kids might not always complain about their feet, it’s important as parents to be aware of their foot health – because small issues can turn into bigger problems if left unchecked.
In this brief article brought to you by Mountain Spring Podiatry, we offer some general guidance on what you need to know about keeping your child’s feet healthy and happy throughout the school year. If you’d rather consult a licensed podiatrist, then call Mountain Spring Podiatry to schedule a convenient appointment.
Footwear should be cool and comfortable
It’s no secret that kids grow quickly, and outgrowing shoes is a common issue. Shoes that are too tight or too loose can cause discomfort and even lead to problems like blisters, calluses, or ingrown toenails. Ill-fitting shoes can also contribute to longer-term issues like flat feet or misalignment.
Choose the right shoes and pay attention to fit. For everyday school shoes, look for ones that provide support, especially in the arch and heel. For sports, make sure your child has activity-specific shoes. Kids’ feet grow rapidly, so it’s a good idea to check their shoe size every few months.
Watch out for growing pains
As children grow, they may experience what’s commonly referred to as “growing pains.” This can include aches in their legs and feet, especially after a long day of activity. While growing pains are generally harmless, persistent pain can sometimes indicate other issues like flat feet, fallen arches, or even improper foot development.
Regular foot care is essential. Encourage your child to rest their feet and legs after long periods of activity. Simple stretching exercises for the calves and hamstrings can relieve tension.
If the pain doesn’t seem to improve with rest, or if your child is complaining more frequently about foot or leg pain, it’s worth checking with a foot doctor to rule out any structural problems.
Flat Feet: Common but treatable
Flat feet are common in kids, but many outgrow this condition as their arches develop. However, if your child continues to have flat feet into their school years, it could lead to discomfort or affect their posture and balance.
If your child’s shoes wear down unevenly, they might have flat feet. Observe how they walk – do their ankles roll inward? Foot specialists can evaluate your child and suggest treatments such as custom orthotics.
Sports Injuries: Prevention is key
Participating in sports is a great way for kids to stay active and develop skills, but it also increases the risk of foot and ankle injuries. Encourage warm-ups and stretching, and invest in the right gear.
While prevention is key, make sure to act promptly in the event of an injury. Timely foot care can avoid further injury and shorten the recovery period. Call Mountain Spring Podiatry to get in touch as soon as possible.
