Healthy Habits: Foot Health for Kids

A baby’s first steps are an unforgettable milestone in your child’s life. But even after those first precious steps, it’s important to continue paying close attention to your little one’s feet. After all, healthy feet will ensure a solid foundation as your child grows. I had a chance to interview Dr. Megan Leahy, podiatrist and mother of two, on behalf of the  American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).

April is Foot Health Awareness Month, the perfect time to learn more about the importance of maintaining children’s foot health at all stages of development. Don’t let a child’s foot pain stop them in their tracks. Today’s podiatrist is an expert on the complex structure of the foot and ankle. They can provide guidance for keeping children’s feet healthy, and treat any injuries or abnormalities. Treating conditions early and quickly will help get kids moving and back on their feet.

Pain-free feet are the first step in making sure children stay active and healthy. That’s why APMA has developed the “First Steps” campaign, an online resource providing tools and information for parents. Here you’ll find brochures and YouTube videos showing parents how to read the “silent signs” of children’s foot pain. There are even helpful tips you can use when shopping for kids shoes. Remember, selecting proper footwear is key! Make sure your child’s footwear passes the “1-2-3 Test”.

1)      First steps are one of the first major milestones parents celebrate. What do parents need to consider with the first pair of shoes?
If possible, bring your baby to a shoe store with a good reputation for children shoe fitting for her first pair of shoes. Her first pair of shoes should be flexible to allow full movement of her developing feet and toes. A moccasin-style shoe is ideal for a baby's first steps as it provides protection, but permits range of motion and allows gripping of the weight-bearing surface. Softer materials such as suede and leather provide breathability and comfort. Be sure the soles of the shoes will provide traction as well.

2)      What should parents consider with hand-me-down shoes?
Everyone wears shoes out in slightly different ways due to differences in gait and foot type. Thus, if possible, please try to avoid hand-me-down shoes. Of course, this can be challenging financially. The dark environment of shoes can harbor bacteria and fungi. If you will be using hand-me-down shoes, air them out in the warm sun to kill these microorganisms and spray them out with an antimicrobial product. Some shoes are also machine washable. Take these precautions to try to avoid infections transferred from hand-me-down shoes.

3)      How can parents help promote good foot health?
Teach your children that foot pain is never normal. Encourage them to maintain good foot hygiene and to inspect their skin and nails for abnormalities. Many foot problems can be avoided with a well fitted shoe. Make sure your children appreciate these important points and their feet should serve them well for miles to come.

4)      What should parents watch out for that could be a hallmark of more serious concerns?
Kids who complain of weakness, pain, or fatigue in their legs while participating in sports may actually have a foot or ankle alignment problem that changes the way they function. A podiatrist can analyze your child's gait and determine if further intervention is necessary to help make sports more enjoyable. Unfortunately, babies and small children cannot describe their pain and symptoms. Thus, seek medical care whenever you notice limping, gait abnormalities or unwillingness to use an extremity.