While foot care is often considered an aspect of adult health, it’s quite important for children as well. By encouraging smart hygiene and investing in quality shoes, parents can help their children develop strong, healthy feet. Offering care for patients of all ages in Norwich, CT, the podiatrists at Eastern CT Foot Specialists highlight a few ways to protect your young one’s heels, toes, and everything in between.

5 Podiatrist Tips for Kids

1. Get the Right Fit

Since children are rapidly developing, it’s important to routinely check and make sure their shoes fit properly. If a shoe is too loose or too tight, it may increase the risk of injury and irritation. The best way to get the right fit is to have their feet measured at a shoe store.

2. Keep Clean

Whether your child is playing outside all day or spending long days in the classroom, you don’t want to leave dirt and perspiration trapped inside of a sock for too long. As such, kids should take breaks from shoes and wash their feet every day, making sure they also brush the toenails clean. Taking these steps will prevent bad odors, skin rashes, and infections.   

3. Clip Nails 

Depending on how quickly your child’s toenails grow, they may need a trim every few weeks or so. Clipping straight across without going past the skin will prevent problems, like ingrown toe nails, hangnails, and fungal nail infections.

4. Stay Protected

Fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot, can happen anywhere. However, those who don’t wear shoes in public areas are at a greater risk of being exposed. As such, you should always encourage your child to wear flip flops as protection when walking in areas, like locker rooms and swimming pools.

5. Rotate Shoes   

It’s a good idea to keep multiple pairs of shoes around the house to prevent moisture and odor issues. Rotating footwear helps interiors completely air out and dry before they are used again. For example, shoes worn to school can be switched out with athletic sneakers in the afternoon if your child goes out to play.

Although these tips are great ways to keep a kid’s feet in excellent shape all year round, parents should keep their eye out for health concerns. Minor issues, like a fungal infection, may be treated with over-the-counter products. However, if your child experiences worse pain, ingrown toenails, or an infection, you should consult podiatrists for a proper diagnosis and care.

Treating both adults and children, Eastern CT Foot Specialists provide the comprehensive services you need to promote long-term foot health in your family. Whether your child has ankle pain or you’re curious about correcting a hammer toe, our doctors have the experience and tools necessary to accurately diagnose and treat the issue.

Call (860) 887-3538 to schedule a convenient appointment at the Norwich office, or (860) 456-9593 at the North Windham office.