It’s beneficial for children to learn at an early age how to properly take care of their feet. One way to accomplish this includes teaching them how to wash and dry their feet daily, especially in between the toes. Additionally, learning how to properly trim the toenails is a crucial element, which may prevent unpleasant foot conditions from developing, such as ingrown toenails. If your child should complain about heel pain, predominantly in the morning, a plantar’s wart may have developed. This may be avoided by teaching your child to wear appropriate shoes in the shower and pool areas, which may prevent the fungus that causes this condition to occur, to stop from entering the feet. If you notice your child scratching their feet, an ailment that is referred to as athlete's foot may have developed. Research has shown this may be avoided by wearing clean shoes and socks and showering or bathing in a clean area. It’s advised to have your child visit a podiatrist to learn about proper techniques for caring for the feet.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Arnold Tarpley, Jr. of Tarpley Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Tarpley can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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