September 2024

Children are often active and growing rapidly, which makes them susceptible to a variety of foot problems. Some of the most frequently seen issues include flat feet, plantar warts, ingrown toenails, and Sever’s disease. Flat feet occur when the arches do not develop properly, leading to discomfort or pain, especially during physical activities. Although many children outgrow this condition, some may need supportive footwear or orthotics. Plantar warts, caused by a viral infection, often develop on the soles of the feet and can be painful. These warts are common in children who frequently walk barefoot in public places like pools or locker rooms. Ingrown toenails, where the nail grows into the skin, can cause significant pain and even infection. This is often due to improper nail trimming or wearing tight shoes. Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing children, resulting from inflammation of the growth plate in the heel. Rest and proper footwear are key to managing this condition. If your child suffers from a foot problem, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist, a specialist who treats various conditions related to the feet and ankles.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Anna Petrov of Family Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Wheeling and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Charcot foot is a serious condition that develops in people with diabetes, particularly those with peripheral neuropathy, a type of nerve damage that reduces sensation in the feet. This lack of feeling can prevent individuals from noticing injuries, such as small fractures or dislocations, which can worsen over time. As the damage progresses, it can lead to severe foot deformities, chronic ulcers, and in some cases, the need for surgery. Risk factors for Charcot foot neuropathy include long-term diabetes, older age, low bone mineral density, and a history of foot injuries. Early detection and intervention are vital to managing this condition, and a podiatrist plays a critical role in diagnosing and treating Charcot foot. This medically trained foot doctor may suggest custom footwear, casting, and other interventions to prevent further damage and support healing. If you believe you may have foot problems related to neuropathy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment options.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Dr. Anna Petrov from Family Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Wheeling and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.