Platte Valley Medical Clinic Spotlights Foot Health Awareness Month

April is National Foot Health Awareness Month. The Podiatry Team at Platte Valley Medical Clinic wants to educate you on Pediatric Foot Health and ways to prevent long-term issues in your child's feet.

What is a podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a medical professional who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions related to the feet, ankles, and lower extremities. They are experts in the structure, function, and movement of the feet, and are trained to treat a wide range of conditions including foot and ankle injuries, infections, deformities, and diseases. Podiatrists use a combination of non-surgical and surgical techniques to treat their patients, and may also provide advice on foot care, footwear, and exercises to help maintain healthy feet.

Pediatric Foot Health

Pediatric foot health is a crucial aspect of overall physical well-being. As children grow and develop, it is essential to ensure that their feet are healthy and strong. Proper foot care is especially important because a child's feet are still growing and developing, and any issues that are not addressed can lead to long-term problems.

Proper Footwear

One of the most important things to consider when it comes to pediatric foot health is proper footwear. Children's feet grow rapidly, so it is important to ensure that they are wearing shoes that fit properly. Shoes that are too small or too big can cause a range of issues, including blisters, calluses, and even long-term foot problems. It is essential to measure a child's feet regularly and buy shoes that provide adequate support and protection.

Foot Hygiene

Good foot hygiene is another essential aspect of pediatric foot health. It is important to encourage children to wash their feet regularly, especially after playing sports or other physical activities. This can help prevent foot infections and fungal growth. Children should also be taught to dry their feet thoroughly and to apply moisturizer if necessary to prevent dry skin and cracks.

Sports and Physical Activities

Sports and other physical activities are an excellent way for children to develop their physical abilities and overall health. However, it is crucial to ensure that they are wearing appropriate footwear and protective gear to avoid foot injuries. Children should be encouraged to stretch and warm up before physical activities to prevent strain and other foot injuries.

Preventing Flat Feet

Flat feet are a common concern in children, but there are several things that can be done to prevent them. One of the most important is to ensure that children are wearing shoes that provide good arch support. Regular exercise and physical activity can also help develop strong foot muscles and prevent flat feet. In some cases, children may require orthotics or other supportive devices to help support their feet and prevent long-term issues.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are a painful and uncomfortable condition that can affect children. They occur when the toenail grows into the skin surrounding the nail, causing redness, swelling, and pain. To prevent ingrown toenails, children should be encouraged to cut their toenails straight across and avoid cutting them too short. Tight shoes and socks can also contribute to the problem, so it is important to ensure that children are wearing properly fitting footwear.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pediatric foot health is an essential aspect of overall physical well-being. By ensuring that children wear properly fitting shoes, practice good foot hygiene, participate in physical activities safely, prevent flat feet, and avoid ingrown toenails, parents can help their children develop healthy and strong feet that will serve them well throughout their lives. It is important to consult a healthcare professional if any foot issues arise to prevent long-term problems.

Take Action

Give your child's feet the attention they deserve by scheduling an appointment with the expert podiatrist team at Platte Valley Medical Clinic today – call 308-865-2263 to take the first step towards your child's healthier and happier feet.

Information sources: https://apma.org