Children's Podiatry
Children's Foot Health Conditions
Here at Flo Paul Podiatry we also provide expert treatment and advice for children of all ages.
Conditions commonly seen in children include, but are not limited to:
- Flat Feet
- Hypermobility
- Ingrowing toe nails
- Verrucae and warts
- Growing pains
- Infections
If you suspect your child is experiencing any of these conditions or anything else that may be causing them pain or discomfort please book an appointment for an assessment and treatment,
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Flat Feet & High Arch Feet
Foot shapes vary from person to person and some children have flat feet whilst others have high arches and all sizes in between.
In many cases, flat feet are totally normal in young children and resolve naturally as the muscles and bones mature. Causes can include genetics, loose ligaments, muscle weakness, or underlying conditions.
The Podiatrists at Flo Paul's Podiatry can assess whether the flat feet are part of normal development or if treatment is required. We can also recommend custom orthotics (arch supports), exercises to strengthen the feet and legs, footwear advice, and, in very rare cases, surgery may be considered if the condition is severe and causing significant pain or mobility issues.
Hypermobility
Hypermobility in children occurs when their joints move beyond the normal range expected for their age and development. It is often caused by naturally looser connective tissues (ligaments and tendons) and can be hereditary.
While many children with hypermobility have no symptoms, others may experience joint pain, fatigue, clumsiness, or frequent injuries.
We can help by assessing the child's foot and leg alignment, recommending supportive footwear, prescribing custom orthotics to improve stability, and suggesting strengthening and balance exercises to protect the joints and reduce discomfort.
Ingrowing Toe Nails
Ingrowing toenails occur when the edge of a toenail, usually on the big toe, grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection.
They are often caused by improper nail trimming (cutting nails too short or rounding the edges), wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, injury, or having naturally curved nails. Also, commonly seen in children and adults who play intense sports, such as football, rugby and netball.
Podiatrists can treat ingrowing toenails by gently lifting the nail edge, removing the problematic section of the nail, treating any infection, and providing advice to prevent recurrence.
In recurring or severe cases, they may perform a minor surgical procedure to permanently remove part or all of the affected nail.
Verruca
Verrucae are small, rough growths that appear on the soles of children's feet, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus enters the skin through tiny cuts or scrapes, often picked up in places like swimming pools, gyms, or communal changing areas.
Verruca can be painful, especially when walking or standing, and may have tiny black dots in the centre (clotted blood vessels).
We can help by confirming the diagnosis of a verruca and offering treatments such as application of topical acids, Swift microwave therapy or needling to stimulate the immune system to fight the virus. They also provide advice on preventing the spread to others.
Growing Pains
Growing pains in children are common aches, usually felt in the legs, often around the calves, thighs, or behind the knees and heel pain, typically occurring in the late afternoon, at night and after exercise.
The exact cause is not fully understood, but they are thought to be linked to muscle fatigue from physical activity, rapid bone growth, or biomechanical factors like flat feet or poor alignment that put extra strain on muscles and joints.
Podiatrists can help by assessing for any underlying foot or leg issues, providing supportive footwear advice, prescribing custom orthotics to improve alignment and reduce muscle strain, and recommending stretching and strengthening exercises to ease discomfort and prevent recurrence.
Infections
Skin infections of the feet are common conditions that can affect people of all ages. They range from mild irritations to more serious infections and are often caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses. The warm, moist environment of the feet, especially when enclosed in shoes for long periods, provides an ideal breeding ground.
Common skin infections seen by podiatrists include but not limited to:-
- Fungal infections such as athlete’s foot.
- Bacterial infections such as cellulitis from cuts or bites.
- Cracks, or blisters that become infected
- Viral infections like verrucae and warts.
Poor hygiene, sweaty feet, or compromised immune systems can increase risk.
Please see the section on Splinters and Foreign Bodies if you suspect this to be the cause of an infection.
Signs to look out for if you suspect you have a Skin infection can include redness, swelling, warm to the touch, pain and discomfort and any signs of pus and an odour. In some cases you may also feel unwell and develop a fever.