Children's feet, delightful in their petite size, are fascinating in their own right. At birth, a baby's foot bones are mostly cartilage and do not fully ossify until several years later. Another interesting fact is that infants often have a natural ability to grasp with their toes, a trait that gradually diminishes as they start walking. As children explore the world on their feet, the arches of their feet, initially flat, gradually develop over time. Surprisingly, toddlers can have as many as 44 more bones in their feet than adults, until their bones fuse as they grow. Additionally, children's feet are remarkably resilient, often bouncing back quickly from minor injuries. If you have identified potential problems related to your child's feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Jim Maxka, DPM of South Penn Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hanover, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.