Foot problems in children are more common than many parents realize, and addressing them early can prevent long-term problems. One of the most common issues is toeing, where a child may walk with their toes pointed inward, known as in-toeing, or outward, referred to as out-toeing. Both conditions are typically caused by alignment issues but may resolve with time. Athlete's foot is another frequent issue, caused by fungal infections that can lead to itching, redness, and peeling skin. Ankle sprains are common in active children and occur when the ligaments in the ankle stretch or tear during physical activities. Ingrown toenails, which form when the edges of nails grow into the skin, can be painful and lead to infections. Additionally, plantar warts, caused by a viral infection, can also affect children’s feet, causing growths on the soles. If your child has foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot Care of Long Island. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Port Jefferson Station, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Recovering from an ankle sprain requires specific exercises to restore strength, mobility, and stability while reducing the risk of reinjury. Range-of-motion exercises, such as tracing the alphabet with your toes, can help promote gentle movement in the early stages of healing. As the ankle improves, incorporating exercises like the towel stretch can enhance flexibility in the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel. Ankle strengthening exercises, such as pressing the foot against resistance bands, help rebuild stability in the ankle joint. Balance exercises, including standing on the injured foot, are valuable for improving coordination and preventing future sprains. A podiatrist can assess your ankle sprain, recommend the appropriate exercises, and monitor your recovery to ensure the ankle heals correctly. For severe sprains, surgery may be necessary if other treatments are not effective. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What Are the Symptoms?
Mild to moderate bruising
Limited mobility
Swelling
Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)
Preventing a Sprain
Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
Stretching before exercises and sports
Knowing your limits
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Port Jefferson Station, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.
Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that typically affects the skin between the toes but also can spread to the soles or sides of the feet. Athlete’s foot often causes itching, redness, flaking, or cracking of the skin, and the symptoms may vary depending on skin tone. In some cases, the infection can lead to painful blisters or spread to the toenails, causing further complications. Athlete's foot is often contracted in warm, damp environments like communal showers or locker rooms. People with damp or damaged skin are particularly vulnerable to this condition. A podiatrist can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend prescription antifungal medications to address the infection and prevent it from recurring. Seeking professional care is especially important if the infection spreads or becomes severe, as untreated cases can lead to more serious issues. If you believe you have symptoms of an athlete's foot infection, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Care of Long Island. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
Hydrate your feet by using lotion
Exfoliate
Buff off nails
Use of anti-fungal products
Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Port Jefferson Station, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
