Does your child complain of foot pain? Please don’t ignore it. You may think your child wants a bit more attention, but complaining about foot pain is usually not the way to get it. Most are usually minor or temporary problems, but can also be a sign of something more serious. If left untreated, minor foot problems can become severe. It’s best to see your podiatrist if your child has foot pain.

Treating Severe Foot Pain in Children

Night Pain: If your child wakes up in the middle of the night crying of foot or leg pain, they may have “growing pains.” This can occur in a child who is very active in sports-related activities. Please help your child by applying an age-appropriate topical pain reliever to the affected area and giving them the correct dose of an over-the-counter child pain reliever when they are in pain. Cold packs, stretching, and massages will also help your little one fall asleep again. Call your podiatrist if the pain continues throughout the morning, if you notice swelling or redness, or have difficulty bearing weight. Pain during growth can also be something that requires your podiatrist’s attention as soon as possible.

Bunions: These basic foot problems in children are usually not difficult and can generally be treated at home. If he is in pain, give him a mild pain reliever specifically designed for children and make sure his shoes fit snugly. If the bunion persists, you should see your podiatrist. Because bunions can be inherited, very painful bunions in children are best treated before adulthood to prevent a recurrence. 

Flat Feet: Your child may have relatively flat feet when the arches of their feet are fully developed. This is usually noted when a child is a toddler. Foot orthoses may be enough to address the problem. However, in severe cases, your podiatrist may recommend surgery. 

Misalignments:  This congenital foot problem causes various symptoms. It may occur in children and adults and can cause recurrent calluses, foot pain, ankle pain, knee pain, hip pain, muscle pain, imbalance, pronation, supination, awkward gait, and even weight gain. If the feet are misaligned, the ankle joint slides over the heel bone and compresses the space between the two bones—pronation of the foot and eventually pain. If your child cries of foot pain and has any of these symptoms, take them to a podiatrist. If left untreated, a misalignment of the feet can lead to severe and long-lasting pain and irreversible arthritis as an adult. 

Dr. Monique Muronda has completed extensive training as a podiatric surgeon. At Lansdowne Podiatry, our experienced and empathetic doctor and staff believe that your child shouldn’t have foot pain. The correct diagnosis, the fastest possible results, and the most advanced technologies and treatments are available. If your child complains of ankle, foot, or toe pain, we want to help you. Contact Dr. Monique Muronda, DPM for an evaluation.