A child may begin limping for many reasons, and it is important to identify the underlying cause. Common issues include a sprain from play, a splinter lodged in the foot, or painful blisters caused by friction from shoes. In some cases, a severe viral infection can lead to joint inflammation and discomfort that makes walking difficult. Risk factors include high activity levels, wearing poorly fitting footwear, minor unnoticed injuries, and recent illness. Limping may be accompanied by swelling, redness, tenderness, or reluctance to bear weight. A podiatrist can perform a thorough evaluation, diagnose the problem, and provide appropriate treatment to relieve pain and restore movement. If your child is limping, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause and offer effective treatment solutions.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in North Andover, and Tewksbury, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.