Children's feet

Children's feet are not the same as adult's feet. They will appear and function differently as a child develops and grows.

Common children's foot complaints include:

• Flat feet
• Deformity or unusual alignment of toes or feet
• In-toeing (walking with the feet turned inwards)
• Knock-knees (Genu valgum)
• Increased falling or tripping
• Excessive tiredness when walking and running
• Pain when walking or running
• Growth pains (knees, heels, muscular)

Depending on the age of your child, at times, it may be completely appropriate for them to have flat feet and knock knees however this may well be a problem at different developmental stages. An in depth knowledge of these growth stages and how the feet and legs function is key to understanding whether any intervention is necessary.

Appropriate and well fitting footwear is essential for any child and your podiatrist will be more than happy to give you appropriate advice and guidance in this area.