Most children take their first steps between eight and 18 months of age. Initially, toddlers often exhibit flat feet or a tendency to turn their feet inwards due to muscle strength and ligament stiffness catching up with their overall development. This flat-footedness typically improves as the bones strengthen and the feet gain more muscle support. Additionally, some toddlers may walk with one or both feet turned inwards, known as in-toeing, which can originate from the foot, lower leg, or upper leg. In rare cases, toddlers may walk with their feet turned outwards, or out-toeing. Parents should also look for signs such as abnormally shaped toes, persistent or painful ingrown toenails, bunions, foot stiffness, limping, or a sudden change in the child's walking pattern. Other common causes of foot pain include ingrown toenails that persist, and deformities or lumps in the foot. If your child complains of pain while walking, limps, or demonstrates a significant change in their walking pattern, or if your child hasn't started walking by the age of two, a consultation with a podiatrist can help rule out potential developmental concerns. In cases of pain, limited function, or a sudden change in your child's walking pattern, it is a good idea to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a thorough exam and diagnosis.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Steven Sheridan of Ankle & Foot Specialty Clinics. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Sandusky, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.