At The Walking Clinic our paediatric podiatry focuses on the assessment, diagnosis, and management of foot and lower limb conditions in children, addressing issues that may affect their development and mobility. Early intervention is key in paediatric podiatry, as many problems, if left untreated, can lead to long-term complications in posture, gait, and overall musculoskeletal health.
One common condition managed by our podiatrists is growing pains, such as Sever’s (heel pain) and Os Good Slatters (knees). These pains are often associated with rapid growth phases in children, where bones grow faster than muscles and tendons, leading to tightness and discomfort. While growing pains are usually benign, they can be distressing for children and impact their daily activities.
Management of growing pains involves addressing contributing factors such as tight or weak muscles, biomechanical imbalances, or improper footwear. Stretching exercises for the calves, hamstrings, and quadriceps are often recommended to improve flexibility and reduce tension. Strengthening exercises for the lower limbs may also be introduced to enhance muscle support and stability. Additionally, our team may provide advice on appropriate footwear or prescribe custom orthotics to correct biomechanical issues, such as flat feet or overpronation, which can exacerbate discomfort.
Beyond growing pains, our team also manage conditions such as flat feet, in-toeing, heel pain and toe walking. They perform detailed assessments of the child’s gait and development, using tools like video analysis and physical examination to identify any abnormalities.
Education and reassurance are vital for both children and parents. Education regarding a specific condition, provides guidance on self-care techniques, and ensure parents understand the importance of proper footwear and regular monitoring.
By addressing developmental concerns early and offering tailored treatments, our paediatric podiatry care helps children maintain healthy, pain-free feet and achieve optimal growth, mobility and overall happy kids.
