What is pediatric podiatry?

Pediatric podiatry is an area of medicine that focuses on addressing specific acute and chronic foot- and ankle-related issues, as well as issues with gait (or the way a child walks), and the overall development of the bony and soft structures of the feet and ankles.

Childhood is a time of significant and often rapid growth, and a podiatrist who specializes in pediatric issues is skilled in identifying problems and diagnosing them in their earliest stages when treatment can be most effective. Pediatric podiatrists also understand how children heal following an injury or surgical procedure, so they can make sure the treatment supports continued normal development and function of the foot and ankle as the child grows.

What kinds of issues does pediatric podiatry treat?

In addition to foot and ankle injuries that arise from sports and other physical activities, children may also experience issues that arise as a consequence of abnormal growth and development or congenital conditions, including:

• Clubfoot and in-toeing
• Flatfoot deformity
• Ingrown toenails, plantar warts, and skin problems
• Ligament or tendon growth abnormalities that can interfere with normal, comfortable movement
• Problems with a gait that affect the way a child walks and can have a direct influence on their ability to participate in sports and other childhood activities

The team at Foot & Ankle Premier Specialists sees a wide variety of pediatric foot and ankle issues, so you can be sure your child is receiving the best possible care.

Why is it important to see a podiatrist with experience in pediatric podiatry?

Because children's feet and ankles are rapidly growing, pediatric foot care requires special skills, training, and experience to ensure this growth process is not hindered. Plus, the rapid growth and regeneration of tissue that occur in children also affect the way foot and ankle injuries heal, and those differences also must be taken into account when determining the best course of treatment.

How are pediatric foot problems diagnosed and treated?

Diagnosis begins with a thorough examination of the foot and ankle, including passive and active exercises to observe how the foot and ankle move and to locate sources of pain or other symptoms. Personal and family medical histories are also taken into account to look for risk factors or other issues that can help guide diagnosis and treatment. X-rays or other types of diagnostic imaging tests may also be ordered.

Treatment begins with conservative options like bracing, splinting, casting, and physical therapy, with surgery reserved for cases where conservative approaches fail to provide adequate results.

To learn more about the pediatric podiatry services available at Foot & Ankle Premier Specialists, call the office or request an appointment online today.