Hot Topics     Healthy Kids     Teen Health     Health Guide    

Today's podiatrist keeps kids active



Parents should watch for pain, subtle signs of foot and ankle problems in children

Foot issues parents should look for

America's podiatrists want parents to know that foot and ankle pain is never normal for kids. If a child experiences pain or a change in the condition of their feet and ankles, it's time to check in with the expert in kids' foot health—today's podiatrist.

"Many people think podiatry is a specialty that sees mostly older patients," said APMA President Laura J. Pickard, DPM. "But children experience a wide range of developmental conditions, as well as injuries in their feet and ankles, and podiatrists treat them every day."

The Today's Podiatrist Keeps Kids Active campaign is designed to educate parents about how to keep their children's feet and ankles healthy and when to seek care from a podiatrist to ensure children can stay active.


"I'm seeing so many children in my practice," said Priya Parthasarathy, DPM, chair of the APMA Communications Committee. Dr. Parthasarathy said many kids are returning to sports and other physical activities after a long hiatus during the COVID-19 public health crisis. "Some are experiencing overuse injuries, some are wearing cleats, skates, and shoes from two years ago that are now too small. As a parent myself, I keep an eye on my kids' feet and watch for unusual behavior. Sometimes children don't articulate pain the way adults do, but they might be avoiding activities or complaining of fatigue."

Podiatrists say some of the most common conditions to watch for in kids are:
  • Apophysitis—If a young athlete complains of persistent heel pain, it's time to see a podiatrist. Calcaneal apophysitis, or Sever's Disease, is the most common cause of heel pain in children, especially preteens. The growth plate in the heel bone can become inflamed due to overuse in kids who play sports such as basketball and soccer.
  • Fractures/Injuries—If a child has suffered a foot or ankle injury, a podiatrist is a great alternative to crowded ERs and urgent care facilities. Most offices hold spots for emergencies, and a podiatrist is specifically trained to treat the foot and ankle, from fractures to sprains.
  • Ingrown toenails—Usually, toenails grow straight out. Sometimes, however, one or both corners or sides curve and grow into the flesh, causing redness and irritation. Shoe pressure can contribute to this problem, so parents should be sure children are wearing properly fitted shoes. Ingrown nails can become seriously infected if left untreated, and antibiotics alone are not a cure. A podiatrist can correct the problem with a minor procedure.
  • Warts—Kids are susceptible to all sorts of viruses—including the highly contagious virus that causes warts. This virus thrives in warm, moist environments, like pool decks at camp or inside sweaty shoes. Warts are not serious but can become uncomfortable or even painful for kids. Parents should avoid home treatments that may contain harmful ingredients and schedule a visit with a podiatric physician for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Podiatrists treat these and many other conditions in children and can often provide quick relief of pain. Podiatrists provide conservative care and perform surgery to help get kids back in their game. To learn more, visit www.apma.org/keepkidsactive.

The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) is the nation's leading professional organization for today's podiatrist. Doctors of Podiatric Medicine (DPMs) are qualified by their education, training, and experience to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle, and structures of the leg. APMA has 53 component organizations across the United States and its territories, with a membership of more than 12,500 podiatrists. All practicing APMA members are licensed by the state in which they practice. For more information, visit?www.apma.org.   



Other articles by HVP News Reporters


  • What parents should know about Pediatric Growth Hormone Deficiency (PGHD)

    Pediatric growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is a relatively rare condition, affecting an estimated 1 in 4,000-10,000 children. read more »
  • Simplify summer with light lunches

    Bright, crunchy cucumbers are the star of this sammy

    Take the hassle out of lunch with these Cucumber Sandwiches that can be made in advance for afternoon pick-me-ups. read more »
  • Thinking about renovating?

    Check with your building department first

    From updating an outdated kitchen to adding a home office, home renovations can be exciting. Before you dive in, it’s critical to understand the local safety requirements that impact your projects. read more »
  • Your home safety checklist

    Simple steps to keep a safer, happier space

    Your home is more than just a place to live, it’s where you create memories, unwind and feel most comfortable. Yet, many household items and systems can hide potential safety risks. read more »
  • 4,000 reasons to love bees

    These little pollinators are essential to our food supply

    While most people picture the beloved honeybee when they think about bees, North America actually has 4,000 species of native bees, many of which are busy right now. read more »
  • Laying the foundation for writing

    What you can do to get them started

    Learning to write is one of the defining milestones of early childhood, but it doesn’t happen all at once. read more »
  • Choose play every day

    How to transform everyday activities into playful learning opportunities

    Play is a universal language spoken by people of all ages. Through play, children learn to forge connections with others, build a wide range of leadership skills, develop resilience, conquer fears and navigate relationships and social challenges. read more »
  • A perfect lemon and raspberry pairing

    Try this refreshing summer dessert today

    Enjoy the richness of summer with this Ooey Gooey Lemon Cake, which pairs a soft lemony cake with a sweet-tart raspberry drizzle that’s perfect for sharing with your nearest and dearest. read more »
  • How apartment renters can cut energy costs and save big

    7 tips to keep you more comfy

    With economic uncertainty and soaring housing prices putting homeownership out of reach for many Americans, apartment living is on the rise. read more »
  • A beginners guide to pruning flowering plants

    4 simple tips to keep your yard looking great

    Pruning, or the practice of removing dead or diseased branches from flowering plants – including certain herbs, vegetables, shrubs, trees and flowers – allows them to focus their energy on new growth and blossoms, which can result in a more robust and abundant flowering season. read more »