Children are always on the go, running and jumping and using their feet to explore their surroundings. While this is a necessary aspect of their growth, it can also result in a range of foot disorders.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails happen when the toe's edge grows into the skin, producing pain and discomfort. Children who wear shoes that are excessively tight or thin are more likely to develop ingrown toenails.
Causes
Ingrown toenails can be caused by poor toenail trimming, wearing tight-fitting shoes, or toenail damage.
Symptoms
Ingrown toenails in children can cause discomfort, redness, and swelling around the afflicted toe. The region around the toenail may get infected in some circumstances, resulting in pus or discharge.
Treatment
Soak your child's foot in warm water for 15-20 minutes every day to cure an ingrown toenail. You may also use a cotton ball or dental floss to gently elevate the edge of the toenail to help it grow straight. You should consult a doctor if your toe is infected or causing extreme discomfort.
Warts
Warts are tiny, rough growths on the skin produced by viruses. They can appear everywhere on the body, including the foot. Youngsters who spend time in public locations like swimming pools or locker rooms are more likely to acquire warts on their feet.
Causes
Human papillomavirus is the virus that causes warts (HPV). The virus can be transmitted by direct contact with an infected individual or through contact with contaminated surfaces.
Symptoms
When walking or standing, children with warts on their feet may suffer pain or discomfort. Warts might be high, rough, or contain little black spots in the middle.
Treatment
Most warts will disappear on their own without treatment. If your child is in pain or discomfort, you can attempt over-the-counter wart remedies like salicylic acid. You should consult a doctor if the wart is huge or causing serious pain.
Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are warts that form on the sole of the foot. They are generally painful and difficult to cure, and they return frequently.
Causes
Plantar warts are caused by the same virus as other forms of warts, and they can be transferred by direct touch or contaminated surfaces.
Symptoms
Plantar warts in children can cause discomfort or sensitivity when walking or standing, especially if the wart is on a weight-bearing portion of the foot. The warts' surface may be rough, and they may have little black spots in the middle.
Treatment
Plantar warts can be treated with over-the-counter wart remedies such as salicylic acid. You should consult a doctor if the wart is huge or causing serious pain. To eliminate the wart, the doctor may prescribe cryotherapy or laser treatment in some circumstances.
Flat Feet
Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when the arch of the foot collapses and the whole sole of the foot comes into contact with the ground. This can result in foot discomfort, weariness, and other issues including knee and back pain.
Causes
Flat feet can be caused by heredity or by a child's posture or stride. Obesity, foot injuries, and weak muscles in the feet and legs can all contribute to the development of flat feet.
Symptoms
Children with flat feet may endure foot pain or discomfort, especially after long periods of standing or walking. They may also struggle with balance or coordination.
Treatment
Most children with flat feet do not require treatment since the problem normally cures on its own as the kid grows. If your child is in pain or discomfort, you may wish to investigate orthotic inserts or arch supports.
Toe Walking
Toe walking is a frequent practice among young toddlers, but it can also endure until adulthood. It happens when a youngster walks on their toes rather than their heels and can be caused by calf muscular tension or other underlying issues.
Causes
A multitude of reasons, including heredity, cerebral palsy, and muscular dystrophy, can induce toe walking. Idiopathic means that there is no recognized reason in some circumstances.
Symptoms
Kids who toe walk may have balance or coordination issues and appear to walk on their tiptoes. Muscle stiffness or tightness in the legs or feet may also occur.
Treatment
Most toe walkers do not need therapy since the behavior normally resolves on its own as the youngster matures. If the behavior persists, physical treatment or bracing may be advised.
Sever's Disease
Sever's disease is a disorder that causes heel discomfort in youngsters by inflaming the growth plate in the heel bone. It is more frequent among physically active youngsters, particularly those who participate in sports such as running or jumping.
Causes
Repetitive stress on the heel bone during periods of fast development causes Sever's disease. Children with tight calf muscles, flat feet, or high arches are more likely to develop Sever's disease.
Symptoms
Pain or discomfort in the rear or bottom of the heel may occur in children with Sever's disease, especially after physical exercise. The discomfort may be worse in the morning or after prolonged sitting or resting.
Treatment
Rest is frequently advised as a treatment for Sever's disease. Your kid should avoid activities that cause pain or discomfort, and icing or stretching exercises may be beneficial. Physical treatment may be necessary in severe situations.