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Children’s feet are still growing and developing, so problems are often easier to manage when they are looked at early. We see children of all ages in Radlett for flat feet, hypermobility, painful heels, growing pains, in-toeing and out-toeing, verrucae and ingrown toenails, and we can advise on footwear and on insoles or orthotics if they are needed.
Why children’s feet need looking after
A baby’s foot starts out as 45 pieces of soft cartilage. During childhood these harden (ossify) and fuse together into the 26 bones of an adult foot, and the foot is not fully developed until about the age of 18.
During these years children’s feet are very sensitive to pressure. A growing foot can easily take on the shape of a shoe that doesn’t fit properly, which can stop it developing naturally. Baby grows with feet can also cause developmental problems for tiny feet.
Common problems we see in children
Foot shape and posture
- Flat feet
- Hypermobility
- In-toeing and out-toeing
- Curly toes
- Bunions
Pain and walking
- Painful heels
- Growing pains
- Tip-toe walking
Skin and nails
Every child is different and will grow at a different rate, and genetic tendencies can be difficult to change. Where that is the case, the aim is to protect and support the foot while it develops.
What happens at the appointment
- Assessment with you there. Children are always assessed with their parents present. We look at your child’s feet, legs and shoes.
- A clear explanation. Your podiatrist explains what they have found and gives advice on the right management for the condition.
- A plan. That may be footwear advice, treatment for a skin or nail problem, or insoles or orthotics where they are genuinely needed. We can also review any orthotics your child already has.
Footwear
Correct footwear, in both fit and style, is very important for children. A supportive shoe can make all the difference, while a slip-on, loose or worn-out shoe can cause damage.
- Laces, straps or Velcro help hold the foot in the shoe.
- Laces should be done up properly, and undone to take the shoes off.
Insoles and orthotics
Sometimes orthotics (shoe inserts) are needed to manage how the foot meets the ground and to keep it structurally safe. They go into supportive shoes and work by supporting or cushioning the foot as it lands.
We assess children for flat feet, hypermobility and foot pain, and also offer a general foot health check to make sure all is well. If your child already has orthotics we can review them, and if they need them we will advise on the most suitable and cost-effective option.
Where it would help, we can arrange a joint clinic with physiotherapist Naomi Burns for a more complete look at the foot and the whole body. This can include scoring for hypermobility and assessing muscle power, flexibility and strengthening options.
Watch: what are orthotics?
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to come to the appointment with my child?
Yes. Children are always assessed with a parent present, and we will talk you through what we find and what we recommend.
What should my child wear and bring?
A T-shirt and shorts make the assessment easier. Please bring a selection of the shoes your child wears day to day, for sport and for play, along with any insoles or orthotics they already have.
Will my child definitely need insoles?
Not necessarily. Every child is different and grows at a different rate. Often the right footwear and advice is enough. Orthotics are recommended where they are needed to support or protect the foot while it develops.
Do you treat verrucae and ingrown toenails in children?
Yes. For verrucae, salicylic acid is a traditional and well-tolerated option that is particularly suitable for children; see our verrucae page for all the options. For ingrown toenails, see our ingrown toenail page.
How much does it cost?
Please see our prices page, or call us on 01923 856 235 and we will tell you which appointment is right for your child.
Flat feet, in-toeing, growing pains
Musculoskeletal assessment: flat feet, in-toeing, orthotics (£120 , 45 min)
Ingrown or sore toenails
First appointment: ingrown or sore toenail (£80 , 30 min) Short appointment: quick check or one small problem (e.g. ingrown toenail check) (£35 , 15 min)