If your child has a foot deformity, it may be very concerning for you and possibly even painful for your child. To get answers and relief from discomfort, visit podiatrist Christopher O. Cook, DPM, FACFAS, and his team at San Juan Foot and Ankle Center. Located in Montrose and Delta, Colorado, the surgical team has more than 15 years of experience and specialized training in advanced surgery to help your child. To schedule a consultation, call or book using the online tools now.
Pediatric foot deformities can be present from birth or may develop or present later in life — for instance, once the child is able to walk or wear shoes. Deformities can be caused by inherited traits, trauma, or abnormal bone growth.
In children, the bones of the foot are still forming from portions of the bones called growth plates. If the growth plates do not trigger normal patterns of bone growth, a deformity may develop. In some cases, the body is able to adapt or your child may grow out of the deformity. In other cases, your child may need intervention from podiatry specialists like Dr. Cook at San Juan Foot and Ankle Center.
Pediatric deformities develop based on the way the bones of the foot grow. Common types of pediatric deformities include:
Like flat feet in adults, pediatric flatfoot is diagnosed when there is a partial or total collapse of the arch of the foot. It may cause pain and tenderness in the foot, ankle, leg, and knee, and may cause trouble with walking or playing sports.
A tarsal coalition occurs when the bones of the midfoot and heel area fuse together. This typically occurs later in childhood or early adolescence and can limit foot movement and cause pain and stiffness.
Clubfoot is an inward turning and pointing down of the foot, which occurs before a baby is born. Clubfoot is slightly more common in boys than girls. Nonsurgical treatment is often successful to improve the orientation of the feet.
Pediatric deformities can be symptomatic — meaning that they cause pain and discomfort — or asymptomatic — meaning there are no symptoms other than a physical deformities. Your doctors aim to identify whether your child’s deformity is symptomatic or asymptomatic in order to choose the best course of treatment.
In most cases, pediatric deformities are treated conservatively with a combination of orthotics, shoe and activity modifications, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications. In some cases, your child may benefit from physical therapy.
For severe cases of deformity, surgery may be necessary. Dr. Cook works with you to determine if this is the best option for your child.
Pediatric deformities can be concerning, but with proper care, your child’s feet can grow and develop normally. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Cook at San Juan Foot and Ankle online or by phone to get started.
