What Parents Should Know About Growing Feet

When your child takes their first steps, it’s an unforgettable milestone. But it’s easy to overlook just how important their feet really are ,not just now, but for the rest of their lives.

Children’s feet grow fast and go through a lot. From crawling to climbing, running to playing sports, those little feet are constantly changing. At South Dublin Podiatry we see a lot of young patients and know how crucial it is to keep an eye on foot health early on before small issues turn into bigger problems down the line.

Understanding Growing Feet

Kids’ feet are different from adult feet in more ways than just size. When they’re born, babies have soft, squishy feet made mostly of cartilage. Over time, this slowly turns into bone, a process that continues through their teenage years.

That means their feet are still forming as they grow, and things like poorly fitting shoes or foot problems that go unnoticed can have a long-term impact on how they walk, run, and move.

Common Foot Problems in Kids

A lot of childhood foot issues are totally normal and go away on their own. But some things should be checked out by a podiatrist, especially if your child is in pain or seems uncomfortable.

Here are a few of the common concerns we see:

• Flat feet: Pretty normal in toddlers, but worth checking out if they’re older and still have no arch ,especially if it hurts.
  

• Toe-walking, in-toeing, or out-toeing: These walking quirks can be harmless, but sometimes they affect balance or coordination.
  

• Heel pain: Especially common in sporty kids.

• Ingrown toenails: Often caused by tight shoes or cutting nails too short.
  

• Verruca’s and athlete’s foot: Yep, kids get these too often from public pools or changing rooms.
  

Signs It’s Time to See a Podiatrist

Not sure when to make an appointment? Here are a few signs it’s worth checking in:

• Your child complains about sore feet or legs
  

• They seem to trip or fall more than other kids
  

• Their shoes wear out unevenly
  

• You notice a limp or unusual walking pattern
  

• They avoid running or playing like they used to

How You Can Help at Home

A few simple habits can make a big difference:

• Pick the right shoes: Make sure they fit well, have good support, and aren’t too tight. Avoid hand-me-downs — they might not fit your child’s foot shape.
  

• Keep toenails trimmed straight across: This helps prevent painful ingrown nails.
  

• Don’t ignore pain: Foot pain isn’t just “part of growing up.” It’s a sign something might be wrong.

We’re Here When You Need Us

Whether it’s a routine check-up or a concern that’s been bothering your child, we’re here to help. At South Dublin Podiatry ,we take a gentle, child-friendly approach to foot care, because we know that a positive first experience with healthcare can make all the difference. Healthy feet are the foundation for an active, confident childhood.