Happy Feet = Happy Kids

As soon as that last school bell rings for the summer, kids hit the ground running. Whether they are headed to the pool, the beach or to camp, the short time between the end of school and the beginning of summer activities is a great time to pay attention to your child’s foot health.

Fun in the sun can end with a day at the doctor’s office if the proper safety measures are ignored. So before children catch their first glimpse of the giant slide at the pool, the oversized toys at the park, or the exciting new rides at the amusement park, prepare them with the right footwear and protect them with the right care. Here are a few tips from your podiatrist to make the summer fun and safe.

• Carefully observe your child’s walking patterns. Does your child have toes that point in or out, or have knock-knees or other gait abnormalities? These problems can be corrected if they are detected early and treated by a podiatrist.
• Children’s feet change size rapidly, so always have your child’s feet measured each time you purchase new shoes. Make sure that measurements are done while the child is standing for a more accurate sizing. The best time to buy new shoes is at the end of the day.
• When shopping for shoes, look for stiff material on either side of the heel, adequate cushioning and a built-in arch. The shoe should bend at the ball of the foot, not in the middle of the shoe.
• Never wear hand-me-down shoes.
• Don’t buy shoes that need a “break-in” period. Good shoes should feel comfortable right away. For athletic activities, choose a shoe that is designed for the sport your child will be playing.
• Never pack brand-new shoes for your children to wear on vacation.
• Walking barefoot on pavement, hotel or airplane carpeting, in hotel bathrooms or a locker room and near the pool can expose your child’s feet to a host of infections. Always wear a pair of flip-flops or strappy sandals made of soft, supple leather to prevent contracting a bacteria, fungus, or viruses.
• When applying sunscreen, don’t forget about putting some on your child’s feet. Additionally, always remember to re-apply.
• Watch for clues that your child may be injured. Limping, tripping, and hesitating to bear weight are telltale signs that something may be wrong. Remember that lack of complaints by a youngster is not a reliable sign. The bones of growing feet are so flexible that they can be twisted and distorted without the child being aware.
• Be careful about applying home remedies to children’s feet. Preparations strong enough to kill certain types of fungus in adults may irritate kids’ skin. Your best bet is to visit your podiatrist for treatment of any infections.

If your children suffer a foot injury, don't let it ruin their entire summer of fun. Call our office (309-661-9975) or visit our website to schedule an appointment.