When a child is at their development stage, it is crucial to ensure good foot health, which should help their mobility. You can consult with a pediatric podiatrist who can help guide you on how to help a child take their first step. Moreover, they can also identify potential issues at the initial stage so that you can avoid any long-term complications. If you are still considering visiting a foot clinic, let’s learn the core facts about consulting a pediatric podiatrist.
When To Consult a Pediatric Podiatrist?
It is usually recommended that you take your child for an annual foot and ankle examination to prevent any long-term complications. Thus, visiting a pediatric podiatrist associated with feetfirstpodiatry.com.sg is similar to visiting any health specialist for a yearly check-up. Here is a list of symptoms to watch. If you witness any of them, it is time to seek specialized care.
- If the child is complaining about discomfort or foot pain for a long time, over-the-counter medicines or ointments cannot provide the solution.
- If you notice a change in your child’s walking pattern or they are limping without facing any injury.
- Kids are usually very active, but if they complain about frequent tiredness in the feet, reluctance to participate in physical activities, or feel fatigued, it is a cause of concern.
- If there is a complaint about lack of sensation in the feet, numbness, tingling, or balance issues. They might even complain about frequent falls and clumsiness compared to their peers.
- If a deformity of the foot has created a difference in shape and size between your child’s feet.
- The presence of feet abnormality, where the child’s feet either turn inward or outward, is also called toe-walking.
- If the child’s injury has led to swelling, pain, redness, and tenderness.
- The child has flat feet and is in the age range of a toddler, or if there is a family history of foot issues, including clubfoot or other deformities.
What To Expect During the Visit?
When you are approaching a pediatric podiatrist, they will help you with early detection and treatment, preventing your child from facing any discomfort or mobility issues in the future. They start with structural and appearance examinations of the feet. They also evaluate the child’s walking posture, balance, and foot strike, and an overall assessment of the gait is performed. Along with that, they review the child’s regular footwear. They would ask you about the discomforts and issues your child is facing, and based on that if required, imaging tests will be conducted.
Final Words
A pediatric podiatrist always tailors a treatment plan based on the child’s specific requirements, which also include age, health, and severity of the problem. They can manage a wide range of foot and ankle issues among children and always advise parents to stay vigilant about foot health. Thus, your child can enjoy pain-free mobility and remain active. What are you waiting for? Go ahead and book the appointment with a reliable pediatric podiatrist right away.