WHY YOUR CHILD¨S FOOT CARE IS IMPORTANT
Having strong, healthy feet allows your child to walk, run and play. If your child’s feet form correctly, certain types of back and leg pain can be avoided later in life. Exams of the feet and ankles ensure that your child’s bones are growing correctly. Your doctor can also make sure that your child is walking right. This helps prevent some future foot problems. And if a problem does arise, it can be handled early – When it is easiest to treat.

YOUR BABY¨S FEET.
Both the size and shape of your child’s feet change quickly during the first year of life. Because a baby’s feet are flexible, too much pressure or strain can affect the shape of the foot. To help ensure normal growth, allow your baby to kick and stretch his or her feet. Also, make sure shoes and socks don’t squeeze toes.

YOUR TODDLER¨S FEET
Your toddler will walk when he or she is ready. Try not to force the issue. Instead watch your child’s gait once he or she does begin to walk. Does the toe touch down instead of the heel? Does your child always sit while others play actively? If so, talk with the doctor. If you toddler’s feet are fat, flat and floppy –don’t worry. This is usually normal. Also, many toddlers toe-in, but most outgrow the problem.

WHEN FEET CARE IS NEEDED
During a foot exam, the doctor will watch your toddler walk. IF a gait problem exists, the doctor works to identify its cause.To help with severe flat feet, special shoes or orthotics (Custom-made shoe inserts) may be prescribed.
• To correct mild toeing-in, your toddler any need to sit in a different position while playing or watching TV.
• If your child’s feet turn in or out a lot, corrective shoes, splints, or night braces may be prescribed. Wearing these
   devices can help the foot as it grows.

YOUR CHILD´S ACTIVE FEET
The foot´s bone structure is pretty well formed by the time your child reaches age 7 or 8. But if a growth plate (the area where bone growth begins) is injured, the damaged plate may cause the bone to grow oddly. With a doctor´s care, however, the risk of future bone problems is reduced.