As a tree bends, so shall it grow!

How accurately this statement describes developmental problems of the feet and legs in infants and children.

All too often, well-meaning friends, relatives and ... unfortunately ... misinformed health care providers, advise parents not to worry about a child's foot problem. They say the problem is only temporary and will be outgrown it in time.

While this advice is true on occasion, often the problem will become increasingly worse with the passage of time and considerably more resistant to treatment.

If you even suspect your child has any foot abnormality, it is time to consult your family foot specialist, the podiatrist. A thorough examination of the joints, muscles and tendons of your child's feet will be performed to determine their level of development and function. X- rays may be needed to be sure the bones are maturing properly and are well aligned.

Some of the most common foot problems seen in infants are metatarsus adductus, club feet -- and excessively flat feet.

These problems usually are observed soon after birth. It is thought to be a result of the way the child was carried by the mother during pregnancy. Since the child's feet are so soft and flexible during this time, they can easily adapt to most any shape.

These problems, when detected in the first few months of life, usually respond quite well to stretching and the application of casts to the feet and legs, gradually straightening and realigning the extremity. In severe cases surgery may be needed.

Nearly all infants and children go through an early stage of development when they appear to have a slight degree of flat feet. This is usually normal, and is no cause for alarm. However, if the child complains of pain, refuses to walk, or the foot appears unusually flat, it is time to consult your podiatrist. The podiatrist can help you determine whether there is cause for concern, and can recommend proper treatment. In-toeing and toe walking are two more of the common childhood foot and leg problems that may require evaluation and treatment.

Any child with a suspected foot problem should have the benefit of an early, thorough examination and evaluation by a qualified foot specialist, your podiatrist. We make it easy for your child to have this service. Here's how...

The physicians and staff of the A Step Ahead Foot & Ankle Centers maintain two complete podiatric clinical facilities and provide 24-hour emergency service. We participate in most health plans including Blue Cross / Blue Shield, Medicare, and Medicaid. We complete and file all necessary insurance forms and make every effort to assure you of maximum benefits with minimum out-of-pocket expense.

You are invited to make an appointment today to relieve your foot problems by calling us at 970-493-4660 or 970-667-0769.

Back to Contributing Factors to Foot Problems