Children’s Footcare with The Foot & Ankle Clinic Podiatrist Dr. Tom Lambert
The Foot & Ankle Clinic recently opened in Warragul with their most experienced podiatrist, Dr Thomas Lambert, heading the clinic. Dr Lambert is proud to offer and have access to state-of-the-art technology including GaitScan imaging, assessments and reports, 3D scanning for orthotictherapy, LaserNail therapy, Shockwave and Prolotherapy, as well as access to onsite pharmacy and pathology services.
With the end of school holidays approaching, it’s a great time to think about podiatry and your children. Many foot, ankle, lower leg, hip and even back problems experienced in adult life can be prevented if Podiatry treatment is provided during childhood.
To avoid complications with your child’s feet, follow these important guidelines:
Don’t restrict a baby’s development with tight bed clothes, booties, socks or blankets. Allow them to kick and exercise legs and feet.
Discourage poor sleeping and sitting positions (ie. sleeping on stomach or kneeling with feet turned out). Sitting with legs crossed is preferred.
c Walking frames place stress on bones and muscles prematurely. Babies will begin walking through natural development, which usually occurs between nine and 18 months.
●When your child begins walking, look for signs that may indicate abnormalities in their structure and development. Signs to look for include: - Awkward walking style - Feet turned out excessively - Painful, tired legs at the end of the day (also known as ‘growing pains’) - Abnormal wear patterns on shoes - Skin lesions (ie. corns, blisters, calluses) - Constant tripping or clumsiness Many of these problems can be treated with exercise, shoe modifications or custom made insoles.
Barefoot is acceptable in non-problematic feet and is advisable during early development, however footwear is required once prolonged weight bearing and walking begins.
Once at school, many children wear the same shoes eight hours a day, five days a week, so it is essential to ensure shoes fit correctly to promote healthy development and prevent potential injuries. With style, fit, function, comfort and durability in mind, our friendly staff will help find or recommend the ideal shoe for your child. Qualities to look for in a shoe include:
Adequate length and width of a shoe (especially across the ball of the foot and toes)
A stiff sole, except at the ball of the foot where the shoes should provide adequate flexibility for the foot to bend
A good lace-up or strap to hold the foot firmly in the shoe
Leather uppers help prevent excess moisture build up
A softer shoe may be advised in pigeon toed children as this lessens the severity of the condition
Avoid elastic sided boots as the elastic stretches after a short period and the boot loses the majority of its support and stability.
Dr Tom Lambert is one of TFAAC’s most experienced Podiatrists and has expert knowledge in shoe and orthotic fitting. If you suspect your child has foot or ankle problems, make an appointment to see Tom today at Central Clinic, 170 Normanby Street, Warragul, where as part of your child’s comprehensive assessment they will receive a complimentary Digital GaitScan and Podiatry Report (normally $88.00) with any standard consultation. Phone 5611 9585 or visit www.footclinic.com.au to find out more or request an appointment online.