Foot pain in children can be common, and it can be caused by a variety of things. Below we will outline some of the most common causes of foot pain in kids.
Flat Feet
Flat feet means the arches on the inside of the feet are completely flat.
This can cause pain, particularly in the heels and the balls of the feet, and can also lead to overpronation, which can also contribute to pain in other areas such as the knees and ankles.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is a condition that affects the growth plate in the heel bone. It is most common in active children, particularly those who play sports that involve a lot of running and jumping.
Symptoms include pain and tenderness, particularly in the heel area.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when the nail grows into the skin around the toe, causing pain and tenderness. This can be caused by improper trimming, tight shoes, or injury.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a condition that affects the plantar fascia, which is the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot. It can cause pain, particularly in the heel area.
Heel Spurs
Heel spurs are bony growths that form on the heel bone. They can cause pain and tenderness, particularly in the heel area.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton’s neuroma is a condition that affects the nerves between the toes. It can cause pain, tingling, and numbness in the toes.
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis is a condition that affects the Achilles tendon, which is the tendon that connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. It can cause pain, particularly in the heel area.
Sprains and Strains
Children can experience sprains and strains in their feet and ankles just like adults. These injuries can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty walking.
Growth Spurts
Children’s feet can grow rapidly during growth spurts, which can cause discomfort and pain. It is important to make sure children are wearing properly fitting shoes during this time.
Overuse
Just like adults, children can experience foot pain from overuse. This can be caused by participating in activities that put a lot of stress on the feet, such as sports or dance.
Conclusion
There are many different causes of foot pain in children. If your child is experiencing foot pain, it is important to have them evaluated by a doctor or podiatrist to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.