
When Should You Take Your Child to a Podiatrist?

You’ve read up on everything from booster seats to school systems, but how much research have you done on kids’ feet? Your child’s feet grow rapidly every month after they’re born, and lots can go wrong as they develop.
But how do you know when it’s time for your child to see a podiatrist?
Here at Foot and Ankle Care of Passaic in Lodi, New Jersey, our team of experts led by Dr. Sean Rosenblum wants to make sure you’re completely informed about your child’s foot health. Take a closer look at a few of the most common reasons your child may need to see a podiatrist and how we can help when a foot problem develops.
Newborn foot problems
Foot anomalies are common in newborns and are typically painless and correctable. If you or your child’s pediatrician observe any foot or toe deformities at birth, come see Dr. Rosenblum. He can diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, including:
- Club foot
- Metatarsus adductus: the toes point inward and won’t straighten
- Curly toes
- Flat foot
- Extra toes
Often, these problems can be corrected in the early stages of life, before your child starts walking.
Your child complains of pain
If your child complains of pain, discomfort, soreness, tenderness, etc. in their legs, feet, or ankles, it’s often the first sign of a foot problem. This is especially true if your child frequently mentions pain and discomfort, and we encourage you to make an appointment with Dr. Rosenblum immediately.
You notice a new or worsening problem
Parents are usually the first to notice a problem. Check for certain psychological and behavioral changes that indicate a potential foot problem, such as:
- Withdrawal from activity
- Avoiding standing, walking, and/or running
- Changes in gait
- Knocked knees or bowed legs
Also, watch for other problems like open wounds, warts, nail discoloration, ingrown toenails, and foot fungus.
Even if they aren’t accompanied by reports of pain and discomfort, these are all telltale signs of a developing underlying issue, and you should schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
Your child is active in sports
Children who are active in sports are at a significantly higher risk for foot problems than their peers who aren’t. Repeated stress on still-growing bones and growth plates can easily cause breaks, sprains, bruising, and other sources of pain.
We can also help you find supportive footwear for your child to use during their activities and walk your child through the basics of proper foot and ankle mechanics when running, jumping, and walking.
Your child has a history of foot problems
Has your child already sustained a foot injury? Have they had problems in the past? Do foot problems run in your family? Then you need an expert podiatrist on your team. We help your child manage pre-existing and recurring foot problems to help them grow and develop properly.
How we can help
When the worst happens and your child injures their foot or develops foot problems, rest assured that our comprehensive treatments and therapies can help them take their first steps toward a pain-free life.
We review your child’s symptoms and health history before creating a treatment plan. Depending on your child's need, we may recommend:
- Orthotics
- Nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE)
- Balance and flexibility training
- Therapeutic ultrasound
- Physical therapy
- Anti-fungal creams and medications
- Splints, casts, or braces
Want more information about how you can help support your child’s foot health? Are you worried that your child has developed a foot problem? We want to meet with you. You can request an appointment online or over the phone today.
You Might Also Enjoy...


5 Exercises for Strengthening Flat Feet

5 Unexpected Benefits of Orthotics

6 Steps for Performing Your Own Diabetic Foot Check

What Causes Plantar Warts and How Can I Get Rid of Them?
