Foot Problems That Commonly Affect Children

Children are constantly growing, learning, and moving — and their feet carry them through every step of it. From playground games to sports practices, their feet take on a lot. While most kids bounce back quickly from bumps and scrapes, certain foot problems in children are more than “just growing pains.”

As a parent, it helps to know which issues are common, what signs to look out for, and when it’s time to get help.

Why Children’s Feet Need Special Care

A child’s foot is not just a smaller version of an adult’s foot. The bones are still developing, the muscles are getting stronger, and the ligaments are more flexible. This makes kids more vulnerable to problems that, if left untreated, can affect how they walk, run, and even stand.

The good news is that many childhood foot problems are treatable, especially when caught early.

Common Foot Problems in Children

Flat Feet

Flat feet happen when the arches of the feet don’t fully develop. Many kids grow out of it as their muscles strengthen, but in some cases, flat feet can cause pain in the arches, ankles, or even the legs. Supportive shoes or custom orthotics (shoe inserts) can make a big difference.

Heel Pain (Sever’s Disease)

Sever’s disease is one of the most common causes of heel pain in active children. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes irritated, often from running or jumping. Kids may limp, avoid sports, or complain that their heels hurt at the end of the day.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails happen when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. They can cause pain, redness, and even infection. Tight shoes, improper nail trimming, or simply genetics may be the cause.

Toe Walking

Some children walk on their toes long after the toddler years. While sometimes it’s just a habit, toe walking can also be linked to muscle tightness or neurological conditions. A podiatrist can determine the cause and suggest the right treatment.

Sports Injuries

From soccer fields to basketball courts, kids are active — and that means sprains, strains, and fractures are common. Children’s bones are softer and more prone to certain injuries, so what looks like a mild ankle twist may actually need medical attention.

When to See a Podiatrist

It can be hard to know when a child’s foot complaint is “just normal” or something more serious. A good rule of thumb: if pain, swelling, or changes in how they walk last more than a few days, it’s worth checking in.

At Thrive Foot and Ankle, we often see children with heel pain, flat feet, or sports injuries. With early evaluation, most kids get back to their favorite activities quickly and with less risk of long-term problems.

What Parents Can Do at Home

There are also steps parents can take to support healthy foot development:

• Check shoe fit regularly — kids’ feet grow fast, and shoes that are too tight can cause pain or deformities.

• Encourage stretching — especially for active kids, stretching the calves and feet helps prevent tightness and injuries.

• Watch for changes in walking — limping, toe walking, or avoiding activities can signal an issue.

• Keep toenails trimmed properly — straight across, not rounded, to reduce the risk of ingrown toenails.

The Bottom Line

Children’s feet are the foundation for a lifetime of movement. While some aches and pains are part of growing up, recurring issues like heel pain, swelling, or changes in walking should never be ignored. Early care can prevent bigger problems later and keep kids moving with confidence.

👉 For expert care and peace of mind, visit Thrive Foot and Ankle. Book an appointment online today to support your child’s healthy steps forward.