Growing pains- what you need to know!

Does your child or a child you know complain of pains in the feet, ankles, legs or knees? Are they complaining after lots of running around or sport? Are they limping off the sports field?

These complaints are common, but podiatrists don’t consider it ‘normal’ for children to have pains as they grow.

What can be the cause of the pain? 
There is always a reason for their pains and often one or a number of the following factors can cause these pains;

- poor foot or leg posture
- tight muscles
- poor footware choices
- growth plate problems
- inefficient gait patterns
- flat feet

What should I do if my child has been complaining of sore feet? 
Get them in to see us right away, the problem won’t get better on its own and often gets worse if left untreated. Our podiatrists treat children’s feet every day and it’s our job to carry out a thorough assessment to work out exactly what’s wrong and get right to the bottom of the problem.  When you come in for an appointment your podiatrist will assess your child’s foot type, gait pattern, the range of motion in their joints, muscle lengths and footwear. Our podiatrists will then work with you and your child to develop a suitable treatment plan to address your child’s specific foot or gait problem.

When should I go and see someone about my child’s sore feet? 
If your child has been complaining of sore feet, ankles, legs or knees for a month or more or if their posture, walking or running style looks awkward, or just doesn't look right to you come and see us! If you’re not sure if your child needs an appointment you can come in for a free foot check to see if you need an appointment. If you do need an appointment you don’t need a referral and it’s claimable through your health fund.

Make an appointment to see an Active Foot Clinic podiatrist today and help keep your child active for life! Call us on 02 6925 8637 or book online using the button below.