A baby’s foot contains more cartilage than bone, but will eventually have 26 bones in each foot when fully formed. Children's feet grow at a faster rate the younger they are. Within the first 3 years, a baby's foot coot could grow up to 9 sizes. Research has shown children have feet that are more durable than adult feet and can endure more stress. When it is time for the first pair of shoes to be purchased, it is beneficial that they effectively absorb shock and have strong soles. Many parents choose to have their children wear shoes that are made of leather and canvas materials, which are flexible and breathable fabrics. It is helpful to buy shoes that are the right size. If the shoe doesn’t fit correctly, unwanted foot conditions may develop that can include blisters and ingrown toenails. If you have questions about what type of shoes to buy for your child, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can help you with the right footwear choices.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact the foot specialists of Marvel Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Gilbert and Chandler, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s disease affects the heel. It can happen in children and young teenagers who frequently participate in running and jumping activities. Parents may notice their child is limping or walking on tiptoes, which are common symptoms of Sever’s disease. This condition can happen as a result of repetitive stress to the heel bone growth area. As the heel grows, the consistent activity may cause the growth plate to heal improperly, possibly causing Sever's disease. The growth plate can be protected by wearing shoes that fit well while engaging in these types of activities. Having good arch support and cushioning may help the heel to recover in a timely manner. Treatment generally begins with temporarily stopping the activity that caused this condition, and it may help to elevate the affected foot as often as possible. If your child has symptoms of Sever’s disease, it is strongly suggested that a podiatrist is consulted as quickly as possible who can provide permanent treatment solutions.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see the foot specialists from Marvel Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Gilbert and Chandler, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

Wearing shoes that are too tight can either cause foot conditions or make existing problems more painful. For that reason, being aware of a proper fit when buying shoes for any reason is important, especially in this era of online shopping. Among the many foot problems related to wearing tight shoes are bunions, corns, hammertoes, and ingrown toenails. When purchasing shoes, measure your feet properly beforehand to have both the correct length and width. Be sure that your foot does not feel pinched or cramped within the shoe, in addition to ensuring the toes are not being squeezed together. The structure and materials of the shoe itself are as important as its appearance. The width and depth of the toe box should allow ample room for the toes to move freely in, and the heel should slip easily into the back of the shoe. Check for adequate support and cushioning, particularly if you have bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet. When you try on the shoes, it is beneficial to wear the foot coverings you would have on while wearing them. If you are having difficulty finding the proper shoes to fit your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for more information. 

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact the foot specialists from Marvel Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

• Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
• Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
• Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
• Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
• Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Gilbert and Chandler, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.