3 Tips for Proper Childhood Foot Development

In the beginning stages of childhood foot development, it’s important to allow as much unimpeded foot movement as is safely possible. Children’s feet are very flexible and it is important to give them adequate room to grow and move for proper development to take place.

These 3 tips will help ensure proper childhood foot development:

1)    Going barefoot—Allow your child to crawl around in bare feet to help strengthen the toes and feet for the onset of weight-bearing activity. As your child begins walking, it is also a benefit to be barefooted to properly develop the musculature and increase the strength and flexibility of the toes and feet.

2)    Wearing the right footwear—When shoe-wearing becomes frequent, it is important to have them sized regularly to ensure an ongoing proper fit during this rapid development stage. In fact, in the first few years, new and properly-fitted shoes may be needed every few months.

3)    Regular foot exams—Inspect your child’s feet regularly for injuries and to observe your child during walking to monitor any signs of in-toeing. Since children have limited sensation of feeling in the feet, they may not be able to bring problems to your attention, so keep a watchful eye.

For optimum childhood foot health, see your podiatrist regularly to monitor and catch any problems before they worsen. Dr. Scott Nelson of Foot and Ankle Medical Clinic in Garland, TX (county of Dallas) is a board-certified and highly experienced podiatrist who has helped people suffering from all types of foot and ankle injuries and deformities. From bunions to diabetic foot problems, sports injuries and fungal nails, you can trust that Dr. Nelson and his staff are wholeheartedly devoted to your foot health. Please contact our office with any questions you may have or to schedule an appointment by calling 972-414-9800.