As your child grows, so do their feet—and those little feet play a big role in their overall development. They’ll learn to walk and then take off running and jumping to keep up with their friends. Sometimes it's hard to know what's normal and what's not, so if something about your child’s feet or the way they walk, run, or stand doesn’t seem quite right, our podiatrists at the Foot Center of New York (FCNY) are here to take a look.
Our expert podiatrists specialize in pediatric foot care and understand the unique needs of growing children. Whether your child is dealing with flat feet, toe walking, a sports injury, or another concern, we’ll work with you to build a treatment plan that fits your child’s lifestyle and supports their development.
Common Foot Conditions for Kids
Early is easiest! As your child’s feet grows, treating any issues early is important. Understanding the signs and what to look for can help you get the right care for your child before the problem becomes more serious.
Here are some of the most common foot and ankle issues we see and what to look out for:
Pigeon Toes (In-Toeing)
If your child’s feet turn inward when they walk or run, it’s called in-toeing. It’s most noticeable around ages 2 to 4 years old and can be caused by a twist in the thigh bone (femoral anteversion), shin bone (tibial torsion), or foot bones (metatarsus adductus). Many children outgrow in-toeing with time, but your podiatrist may recommend stretching, physical therapy, shoe inserts or orthotics if needed. In rare cases, surgery is considered later in childhood if the issue is severe and persistent.
Clubfoot
Unlike in-toeing, clubfoot is a more serious condition where a newborn’s foot is twisted downward and inward. Without treatment, this condition can make walking very difficult or painful. Fortunately, when caught early, clubfoot is highly treatable—most commonly with a series of gentle stretches and casts over several weeks, followed by bracing to maintain correction. In some cases, a small outpatient procedure may be needed to lengthen the heel tendon.
Metatarsus Adductus
Metatarsus Adductus is a condition where the front part of the foot turns inward, causing a curved appearance of the foot. It’s most noticeable in infants, and mild cases often resolve on their own. For more serious cases, your podiatrist may recommend gentle stretching exercises, corrective shoes, or casting. Severe or stiff deformities may require more extensive treatment.
Duck Feet (Out-Toeing)
Out-toeing is when your child’s feet point outward instead of straight ahead, and it can appear when your child first starts walking. It's caused by outward rotation of the hip, thigh bone, or foot bones, which can be due to genetics or tight muscles. In some cases, no treatment is needed. However, if it’s causing pain or discomfort, your podiatrist may recommend stretches, physical therapy, or orthotics to manage it or prevent symptoms from developing.
Flat Feet
Flat feet are common in infants and toddlers, as the arch of the foot doesn’t usually develop until later in childhood. In many cases, flat feet are flexible and painless. But when the condition persists or causes discomfort—especially when your child is playing or running—it may need to be addressed by your podiatrist. Treatment often includes supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and exercises to strengthen the foot and ankle. Occasionally, more advanced care is needed for rigid or painful flat feet.
Toe Walking
When a child walks on the balls of their feet without letting their heels hit the ground, it’s called toe walking. While it’s more common during the early stages of walking, consistent toe-walking past the age of 2 to 3 years old may signal a tight Achilles tendon or, in rare cases, an underlying neurological condition. Treatment options include stretching programs, night splints, physical therapy, or braces to help manage walking patterns and address any underlying issues.
Sever’s Disease
Pediatric heel pain, also called Sever’s Disease, is common in active children between the ages of 8 to 14. It happens when the heel’s growth plate becomes inflamed from a sudden growth spurt or repetitive stress, such as running or jumping. Your child may complain of heel pain during or after playing sports, and you might notice them limping or avoiding activity. Treatment can be a mix of rest, stretching exercises, heel cushions, orthotics, and supportive footwear.
Curly Toes and Overlapping Toes
Toes that curl under or lie on top of one another are often referred to as curly toes or overlapping toes. These conditions are usually harmless and caused by tight tendons, genetics, or how the foot was positioned before birth. If your child is experiencing rubbing, pain, blisters, or difficulty wearing shoes, your podiatrist may use toe spacers, taping, or soft orthotics to treat them. In more severe cases, surgery may be considered.
Skin and Nail Conditions
Skin and nail conditions such as ingrown toenails, athlete’s foot, plantar warts, and fungal infections are also common in children. They can be caused by tight shoes, excessive moisture, or exposure to shared surfaces like locker rooms and pools. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, itching, or pain. In most cases, gentle treatments like topical medications, good hygiene practices, or minor procedures can help clear up issues and keep them from returning.
Foot Injury or Trauma
Foot injuries and traumas are among the most common reasons children see a podiatrist. From twisted ankles and sprained ligaments to stress fractures and bruises, foot injuries can happen during sports, playtime, or even just walking on uneven surfaces. If your child is limping, avoiding activity, or complaining of persistent pain, it’s important to get their feet checked out right away.
Expert Care for Little Feet
Children grow fast, and sometimes it’s hard to know what’s normal and what’s not. If something about your child’s feet or walking doesn’t seem quite right, our podiatrists at FCNY are here to take a look.
When to Seek Treatment
Early care now can prevent bigger issues down the road. Make an appointment if your child shows any of the following signs or symptoms:
- Pain or limping
- Uneven wear on shoes
- Trouble keeping up with other kids
- Walking on toes or with feet turned in or out
- Curled, crossed, or overlapping toes
- Frequent tripping or falling
- Changes in the skin of their foot, toenails, or arch shape
Partners in Your Child’s Foot Health
At FCNY, we’re more than specialists. We’re partners in your child’s health and growth.
Our treatments are child-friendly, effective, and focused on getting your child back to doing what they love. Whether it’s physical therapy, orthotics, gentle correction, or stretching, we’ll guide you and your little one every step of the way to better foot health.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If something seems off, don’t wait. Our team is ready to help your child move forward with confidence, comfort, and care that’s always one step ahead!
