The bones in your child’s feet will develop over time— from the cartilage they were born with to ossified bones that are fully formed around the age of 18. For the first few months of their lives, babies’ feet are quite delicate. That is why the type of footwear you choose for your child is very important. You don’t want your child’s developing feet to be distorted by footwear that does not fit properly. Make sure footwear and socks are never tight. While your child’s feet are developing, the nerve endings in their feet are developing too and may not be able to signal if their feet are being squeezed or compressed. Since no two feet are the same, avoid hand-me-down shoes that may not be right for your child’s feet. Keep their toenails trimmed straight across without curving them or cutting them so short that it puts them at risk of developing an ingrown toenail. For more advice on how to best protect your child’s feet as they grow, it is suggested that you contact 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 Dr. Robbi Young of Grand Haven Foot & Ankle. Our doctor 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 office located in Grand Haven, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.