🗓️ Concerned about your child’s foot pain? Click here to schedule an appointment with our team.
We absolutely accept children and are always happy to walk you through your concerns and make sure your child is on the right track.
Foot pain can be tricky to interpret: especially when kids are still learning how to explain what they feel. In today’s article, we’ll help you understand what’s typical, what’s not, and when it might be time to come see one of our doctors.
Common and Often Harmless Foot Pain
Many foot-related complaints in children are common, temporary, and typically harmless. Here are a few examples that usually aren’t cause for concern. That said, if you’re ever unsure whether something is normal or not, our doctors are happy to walk you through your concerns. When in doubt, give us a call. We’re here to help!
🔹 Growing pains
Mild aches in the legs and feet, especially at night, are often caused by growing pains. These typically show up between ages 3 and 12 and usually affect both legs or feet. They aren’t tied to an injury or activity and often go away on their own.
🔹 Tired feet after a busy day
It’s normal for kids to feel some soreness after long days filled with activity. A restful evening and supportive shoes are usually enough to help them bounce back.
🔹 Flat feet in young children
Flat feet are common in toddlers and younger kids because their arches are still developing. If your child has no pain or trouble walking, it’s typically nothing to worry about.
When Foot Pain May Be a Sign of Something More
While occasional discomfort can be expected, certain symptoms may point to something more serious. Consider coming in to see one of our doctors if you notice any of the following:
❗ Pain that sticks around or gets worse
If your child’s foot pain lasts more than a few days or starts interfering with daily activities, it’s time for a closer look.
❗ Limping or avoiding activity
Changes in how your child walks or reluctance to run and play may mean the pain is affecting their movement or confidence. Never hesitate to address this with a doctor.
❗ Swelling, redness, or warmth
These can be signs of inflammation or infection, especially if they don’t improve with rest, ice, or elevation.
❗ Frequent complaints
If your child is often saying “my feet hurt,” even without obvious injury, it’s worth addressing.
❗ Changes in posture, gait, or shoes
Toe-walking, tripping often, or shoes wearing down unevenly may signal a structural issue that needs attention.
Conditions That Benefit from Specialized Foot Care
Some conditions in kids respond best to care from specialists. Even if your child is already seeing a pediatrician or physical therapist, coming to see one of our doctors might offer more focused insight and treatment.
Here are a few of the most common issues we treat in children:
🦶 Sever’s disease (heel pain)
This is a growth plate issue common in active kids and preteens. We can suggest activity modifications, footwear support, and home care to reduce pain.
🦶 Flat feet or high arches
If foot structure is causing pain, fatigue, or balance issues, we can help determine whether custom orthotics or physical therapy would help your child.
🦶 Ingrown toenails
Persistent or infected toenails are painful and often don’t improve without care. Our team provides gentle, effective treatment for lasting relief.
🦶Plantar warts or athlete’s foot
When skin conditions don’t respond to home treatments, we offer safe, kid-friendly solutions.
🦶 Sprains, strains, or sports injuries
Whether it’s an acute injury or lingering soreness, we can ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of reinjury.
🦶 Toe-walking or abnormal gait
Patterns like toe-walking or feet turning in or out can benefit from evaluation and sometimes early intervention.
🦶 Persistent limping or unexplained pain
If your child favors one foot, avoids walking, or seems uncomfortable for no clear reason, a visit can help get to the bottom of it.
When to Come In
You don’t need to wait until things get worse. Come see one of our doctors if:
✔️ Your child’s pain is persistent, worsening, or affecting their routine
✔️ You’ve noticed changes in the way they walk, run, or move
✔️ Home care and rest haven’t made a difference
✔️ There’s visible change in the shape of their feet or toes
✔️ You simply want guidance and peace of mind
Kids are tough, but foot and ankle pain shouldn’t be ignored. If something feels off, trust your instincts. Coming to see one of our doctors early can help prevent long-term issues and keep your child active, confident, and ready to take on the summer!
