As children grow, the shoes that are worn can be key to the development of the feet.  It is beneficial for children to refrain from wearing shoes while indoors as they learn to walk. This is generally helpful in strengthening the toes, as they grip the floor. When it is time to walk outside, the proper size shoes can be purchased after getting a shoe fitting and measuring the foot. It is suggested that shoes are tried on with the socks that will be worn, as this can be instrumental in determining the correct size shoe. Children’s feet grow at a rapid rate, and many parents buy shoes for their children anticipating they will grow into them. This may be harmful to the child, and wearing the wrong size shoe may lead to blisters. If you would like additional information about how to purchase the right shoes for your child, please confer with a podiatrist.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Surgery Specialists of Texas. Our doctors 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 offices located in River Oaks and Sharpstown in Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.