Many of the painful foot problems in adult life have their origins in “mechanical imbalances” in the growing child’s foot and leg.
Because many of these mechanical imbalances are reversible in children, podiatrists believe routine check-ups during growing years are desirable, particularly if you notice any of the following signs in your children:
- Awkwardness when walking or running
- Unusual wear patterns in your child’s shoes
- Peculiar walking patterns such as feet “turning out” or “turning in”
- The presence of corns, callus or splits in the skin
- Painful or “tired” legs after activity
Where an abnormality is found your podiatrist may be able to help by diagnosing the problem and if need be prescribing activities ( exercises), prescribing shoe wearing behavior/ footwear and providing corrective devices (“orthoses”) to fit in your child’s shoes.