3 Common Children’s Foot Conditions

Since their bones, ligaments, tendons, and other tissues are still in the developmental stages, children are more likely to experience various injuries and diseases. At least twice-yearly visits to your foot doctor for the necessary monitoring, assessments, and treatments will help keep your kid’s feet in great shape as they mature.

3 foot and ankle problems common in kids include the following:

1.    Achilles tendonitis—The Achilles tendon often becomes irritated and inflamed during running and jumping activities.  Even more so in children since their bones and connecting tissues are a bit more fragile. Pay attention to your child’s foot movements such as dragging or limping since kids can’t always say the problem.

2.    Fractures of the foot and ankle—Kids are more susceptible to broken bones and stress fractures. Have your foot doctor check any suspected stress fractures since it can be hard to trace the crack's actual location.

3.    Ankle sprains and strains— This is one of the most common injuries seen by foot doctors in general and especially so with kids. It's very important to seek professional treatment to avoid reinjury and prevent future stability problems.

If your child has suffered a foot or ankle injury, consult with your foot doctor for the proper diagnosis and treatment. James C. Ricketti, DPM of Hamilton Square, NJ (in Mercer County), is a board-certified podiatrist providing state of the art diagnostic and treatment options for all types of foot and ankle injuries, diseases, and deformities. From hammertoes and bunions to diabetic foot problems and sports injuries, you can rest assured that Dr. Ricketti and his staff will get you back on your feet as fast as possible. Please contact our office with any questions or to schedule an appointment. Call 609-587-1674.