Little feet a big focus for podiatrists
As thousands of Victorian children get ready for back to school, podiatrists warn many of them could be wearing shoes which permanently damage their feet.
Children spend on average 1000 hours a year in school shoes –and footwear required for popular sports such as cricket, netball, basketball and soccer also add additional pressure on growing feet.
However, research by Australia’s largest podiatry group, My FootDr, has revealed a staggering 61 per cent of children haven’t had their feet professionally measured or fitted within the last 12 months meaning many aren’t getting the support they need.
My FootDr Warragul (formerly South East Podiatry) founder and podiatrist Matt Keating said inappropriate shoes could impact the long-term development of feet.
“Children’s feet and legs develop rapidly, and it can be difficult for parents to know what is and isn’t normal.
Yet how they develop impacts on the child’s ability to live happy, healthy and active lives,” he says.
Mr Keating encouraged parents to adopt a preventative and wellness approach to children’s foot health, much like they do with dental health.
“Conditions ranging from Severs Disease (heel pain), growing pains, flat feet, ingrown toenails and plantar warts are common in childhood,” he says.
“Parents need to better understand how to properly care for their child’s feet, including who to turn to for professional advice. Podiatrists can treat and prevent these conditions to avoid lifestyle-limiting issues later in life.”
“Children should visit a Podiatrist before they start school and undergo a check-up at least annually, or more frequently if they experience foot pain or other symptoms, or if they are involved in multiple sports,” Mr Keating says. My FootDr’s 5 Big Tips for Healthy Little Feet 1. Screen your child early for immediate detection of common problems
2. Stomp out problems immediately if pain or symptoms persist
3. Choose the right footwear for active, growing feet
4. Wear custom shoe orthotics prescribed by a Podiatrist
5. Commit to an annual check-up