Core Services
Children’s Podiatry
Children’s feet are constantly growing and developing, and it’s not always easy to know what’s normal or when to seek professional advice.
At Feet and Motion, our podiatrists assess and treat a wide range of foot and lower-limb conditions in children and young people, from painful toenails and verrucae to concerns about walking, foot posture and musculoskeletal development.
As children grow, their bones, muscles and joints undergo significant changes. Many variations in foot shape and walking patterns are a normal part of development and don’t require treatment. Others may benefit from further assessment, advice or intervention.
Our approach is to understand each child’s individual needs, identify any underlying problems and recommend appropriate care, whether that’s treatment, practical advice or simply reassurance.
Children’s Podiatry
Children may experience a range of foot and lower-limb problems as they grow. Some are temporary or part of normal development, while others may benefit from professional assessment.
Common reasons parents bring their children to see us include:
- Flat feet and foot posture – concerns about the shape or position of the feet.
- Walking and gait concerns – including toe walking, in-toeing, out-toeing or unusual walking patterns.
- Heel, foot and joint pain – including activity-related discomfort and conditions such as Sever’s heel.
- Hypermobility – particularly when associated with pain, fatigue or difficulties with physical activities.
- Developmental concerns – questions about how a child’s feet, legs and walking patterns are developing.
- Sports-related injuries – pain or injuries associated with running, jumping and other activities.
- Verruca – particularly those causing pain or discomfort.
- Ingrowing toenails and nail problems – including painful or infected toenails.
What type of appointment should I book?
Little feet matter
What happens during a children’s podiatry assessment?
Every child is different, so we tailor our assessments to their age, stage of development and individual needs.
We’ll start by talking with you and your child about any concerns, symptoms or difficulties they’ve been experiencing. We may ask about their medical history, physical activities, footwear and developmental milestones.
Depending on the reason for their visit, an assessment may include:
- Looking at foot and lower-limb posture, joint movement and muscle function.
- Observing how your child stands, walks or runs.
- Assessing areas of pain, discomfort or injury.
- Reviewing footwear and discussing everyday activities.
We believe children should be involved in discussions and decisions about their own healthcare. We’ll explain what we’re doing in a way they can understand, listen to their concerns and seek their agreement throughout the appointment, alongside obtaining appropriate parental consent where required.
We also recognise that clinical appointments aren’t always easy for children, particularly those with additional sensory, communication or developmental needs. As we are a team that includes parents and carers with personal experience of these challenges, we understand that a little flexibility, patience and understanding can make all the difference.
Following the assessment, we’ll explain our findings and discuss whether treatment, further investigation, practical advice or reassurance is most appropriate.
Treatment and management for children’s foot problems
Not every childhood foot concern requires treatment. Many variations in foot posture and walking patterns are part of normal development, and sometimes reassurance and advice are all that’s needed.
Where treatment is appropriate, we’ll recommend an approach based on your child’s symptoms, development, activities and individual needs.
Depending on the condition, this may include:
- Exercise and rehabilitation – tailored exercises to improve strength, mobility, balance or function where indicated.
- Orthotics (insoles) – considered where they may help manage symptoms or improve comfort and function.
- Treatment for skin and nail conditions – including painful verrucae, ingrowing toenails and other common foot problems.
- Further investigation or referral – where additional assessment or specialist input may be beneficial.
When should you seek advice about your child’s feet?
Children’s feet and walking patterns change considerably as they grow, and many differences are a normal part of development.
However, it may be worth arranging a podiatry assessment if your child:
- Regularly complains of foot, ankle, heel or lower-limb pain.
- Avoids walking, running or physical activities because of discomfort.
- Frequently trips, falls or struggles with activities compared with their usual abilities.
- Develops a persistent limp or noticeable change in their walking pattern.
- Experiences recurring problems with their toenails or skin.
- Has foot or lower-limb symptoms that are affecting their confidence, comfort or everyday activities.
What about growing pains?
The term “growing pains” is often used to describe aches and discomfort in children’s legs, particularly during the evening or at night. Although growing pains are common, the name can be misleading: growth itself isn’t necessarily the cause of the pain.
Children’s pain should never be dismissed simply because they’re growing. Recurrent or persistent discomfort, particularly when it affects sleep, physical activity or everyday life, deserves appropriate assessment. In many cases, there are practical ways to help manage symptoms and improve comfort.
If you’re unsure whether your child’s symptoms need attention, our team can help you decide whether a podiatry assessment would be appropriate.
Children’s podiatry at Feet & Motion
Whether you’re concerned about your child’s walking, they’re experiencing persistent foot or leg pain, or they need help with a troublesome toenail or verruca, our team is here to help.
We provide individualised assessments and treatment for children and young people, taking the time to understand their needs and involve them in their care.
To arrange an appointment for your child, or to discuss which of our services would be most appropriate, please contact our friendly reception team.