As parents, we worry about everything — and our children's feet are no exception. "Are their feet too flat?" "Why do they walk on their toes?" "Is that growing pain or something more serious?" At the Lower Limb Clinic in Belfast, we see worried parents every week, and most of the time we can put minds at ease.
When Flat Feet Are Normal (and When They're Not)
Here's the first thing parents need to know: flat feet are completely normal in young children. Until around age 5-6, most children have flexible flat feet because their arch hasn't fully developed yet. The arch continues to develop up to age 8-10.
However, flat feet may need assessment if your child:
- Complains of foot, leg, or knee pain
- Tires quickly or avoids physical activity
- Has one foot significantly flatter than the other
- Wears shoes down unevenly
- Has stiff, rigid flat feet (not flexible)
Sever's Disease (Heel Pain in Active Children)
Sever's disease is the most common cause of heel pain in children aged 8-14. It affects the growth plate in the heel and is especially common in sporty children who play football, GAA, basketball, or athletics.
Symptoms include:
- Pain in one or both heels, worse during and after sport
- Limping or walking on tiptoes to avoid heel pressure
- Pain when squeezing the sides of the heel
The good news? Sever's disease is self-limiting and doesn't cause long-term damage. But treatment with custom orthotics, activity modification, and stretching can significantly reduce your child's pain and keep them active.
In-Toeing and Out-Toeing
If your child walks with their feet pointing inward (pigeon-toed) or outward, it can look concerning but is usually a normal part of development. Most cases resolve naturally by age 6-8. Assessment is recommended if it's causing tripping, pain, or isn't improving over time.
Verrucae in Children
Verrucae (plantar warts) are extremely common in school-age children. While many resolve on their own within 1-2 years, painful or spreading verrucae can be treated with various methods at our clinic, including needling, acid therapy, and cryotherapy.
When to Seek Assessment
Bring your child to see a podiatrist if you notice:
- Persistent foot, heel, knee, or leg pain
- Reluctance to participate in sport or physical activity
- Abnormal walking patterns that aren't improving
- Shoes wearing out very quickly or unevenly
- Painful or spreading verrucae
- Ingrown toenails
Our Approach to Children's Foot Care
At the Lower Limb Clinic, we're experienced in making children feel comfortable. Our assessments are thorough but child-friendly, and we always explain our findings clearly to parents. We believe in treating only when necessary — no unnecessary interventions.
Peace of Mind for Belfast Parents
If you're concerned about your child's feet, don't wait and worry. A quick assessment can either put your mind at ease or catch something early when it's easiest to treat. Call us on 028 9013 9185 to book.
