Children's feet are not just smaller versions of adult feet - they are developing and changing rapidly throughout childhood, particularly during growth spurts. While some variation in foot posture and gait is entirely normal at different stages of development, other presentations require assessment and intervention to prevent problems persisting into adulthood.
At Deal Podiatry in Deal, Kent, we provide specialist paediatric podiatry assessments in a friendly and welcoming environment, ensuring children feel relaxed and comfortable throughout their visit.
Common Paediatric Conditions We Treat
Sever's disease (calcaneal apophysitis) – The most common cause of heel pain in children aged 8–14. Caused by inflammation of the heel bone growth plate during periods of rapid growth. Treatable with heel lifts, activity modification, and stretching.
Flat feet (paediatric pes planus) – Many young children have flat feet that resolve naturally as the arch develops. Flat feet that persist, cause pain, or are associated with excessive pronation may require orthotic support.
In-toeing – Children who walk with their feet turned inward, often due to femoral anteversion, tibial torsion, or metatarsus adductus. Most mild cases resolve with age; significant or symptomatic in-toeing may benefit from treatment.
Out-toeing – Walking with feet pointing outward, which can indicate hip or tibial rotational problems.
Growing pains – Nocturnal aching in the legs - common in children aged 3–12. Podiatric assessment can identify biomechanical contributors, and stretching and orthotics can provide relief.
Verrucae – Plantar warts are particularly common in school-age children. We offer age-appropriate treatments from salicylic acid to cryotherapy.
Ingrown toenails – Common in teenagers; conservative care and nail surgery (under local anaesthetic) are both available.
Toe walking – Children who consistently walk on their toes beyond the age of 3 should be assessed, as this can be associated with underlying neurological issues or tight calf muscles.
When Should I Bring My Child to a Podiatrist?
You should consider a podiatric assessment for your child if they:
Complain of foot, heel, or leg pain – Especially if it is affecting their ability to play, sport, or keep up with peers.
Trip or fall frequently – Compared to children of the same age.
Walk with an unusual gait – Including significant in-toeing, out-toeing, or limping.
Refuse to walk or participate in sport – Because of pain or discomfort.
Have flat feet with associated knee or hip pain – Suggesting the flat foot is functionally significant.
Treatment Approaches for Children
Orthotics – Children's orthoses are designed to fit within normal school shoes and support healthy development.
Heel lifts and padding – Simple devices to offload growth plate injuries and reduce pain.
Stretching programmes – Targeted exercises for calf tightness, hamstring tightness, and other contributing factors.
Footwear advice – Appropriate, supportive footwear is essential for healthy development.
Reassurance and monitoring – Many childhood gait presentations are self-correcting, and reassurance guided by expert assessment prevents unnecessary anxiety.
Related Treatments at Deal Podiatry
Deal Podiatry offers the following specialist treatments for children's foot and gait conditions in Deal, Kent:
Book a Paediatric Podiatry Appointment at Deal Podiatry
Early assessment and intervention gives children the best chance of healthy foot development. Contact Deal Podiatry in Deal, Kent to book a paediatric podiatry appointment for your child.