Children’s Podiatry Sydney
Pediatric Podiatry Services At Our Parramatta Clinic
At Guildford Podiatry Centre, we specialise in treating kids foot pain as trusted children’s podiatrists in Sydney. Led by Amir and our experienced team, we focus on providing expert care tailored to young feet. We address common foot issues such as flat feet, growing pains, and foot injuries.
As a skilled pediatric podiatrist, Amir understands the unique challenges of children’s foot health and utilizes advanced techniques to support proper development. Our primary goal is to help your child stay active and pain-free by offering effective solutions for children’s foot pain and promoting strong, healthy foot growth at every stage of development.
The Role of Early Intervention with a Children's Podiatrist
Early intervention is crucial for addressing foot and ankle issues in children. Catching problems like flat feet, improper gait, or injuries early can prevent more serious complications later in life. By consulting a podiatrist promptly, parents can ensure their child's feet develop properly, enhancing mobility and overall well-being. Timely treatment not only alleviates discomfort but also supports healthy growth and an active lifestyle. Prioritizing early intervention lays the foundation for a lifetime
of foot health from seeing kids podiatrist in Parramatta
What to Expect During Your Child’s Podiatry Appointment
If this is your first time visiting a children’s podiatrist, here’s a quick guide to what you can expect during your child’s appointment:
- Initial Consultation
The podiatrist will begin by asking about your child’s medical history, any specific concerns, and the nature of the foot problems. They may ask about your child’s physical activity level, foot pain, and any other relevant issues.
- Foot Examination
The podiatrist will perform a thorough examination of your child’s feet, checking for signs of conditions such as flat feet, misalignment, bunions, or any other abnormalities. The foot structure, gait, and posture will be carefully assessed.
- Diagnostic Tests
Depending on the situation, the podiatrist may recommend X-rays or other diagnostic tools to better understand the problem, especially if there’s a concern about fractures, bone deformities, or joint issues.
- Treatment Plan
After diagnosing the issue, the podiatrist will discuss a treatment plan. This may involve custom orthotics, physical therapy, stretches, or specific exercises for your child to perform at home. They may also offer advice on shoe recommendations and lifestyle changes to help support foot health.
- Follow-up Visits
In many cases, follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your child’s progress, especially if they’re undergoing treatment for an injury or chronic condition.
Understanding Children’s Foot Development
Children’s feet are mostly cartilage at birth, and their bones begin to harden and develop around age 3. By 18 years old, most of the bones in the body, including those in the feet, are fully formed. Because a child’s feet are so flexible, they are particularly vulnerable to damage from improper footwear or excessive pressure.
During infancy, it's essential not to constrain the feet. Babies benefit from being barefoot, as it helps them develop balance and strength in their feet and legs. Tight clothing and shoes should be avoided to allow free movement and encourage natural muscle development.
Walking Milestones
Most children start walking between 10 to 24 months, and each child progresses at their own pace. The typical developmental sequence includes rolling over, sitting, crawling, standing, cruising, walking, running, and hopping. Some children may show signs like in-toeing, out-toeing, or toe-walking. These behaviors usually resolve by 2 years old, but if you're concerned, it’s a good idea to have your child checked by a pediatric podiatrist in Sydney for a joint and foot motion evaluation.
Barefoot walking is recommended indoors as it supports natural foot growth and strengthens the toes.
Flat Feet and Growing Pains
Up to 20% of children may experience flat feet, but it’s not always a cause for concern. If flat feet are causing pain or affecting movement, it’s important to consult with a children’s foot specialist for an assessment. Additionally, if your child experiences growing pains, a thorough biomechanical evaluation should be considered to address potential issues early.
If you’re worried about any aspect of your child’s foot health or development, contact our pediatric podiatry clinic in Sydney to schedule a consultation. We’re here to ensure your child’s feet stay healthy and strong as they grow.
