• Pigeon Toe (Intoeing) - An inward position of the feet when standing or walking.
• Out-Toeing - Child walks "like a duck."
• Flatfeet - At 3 years, this should be evaluated.
• Overlapping toes - These hereditary problems if caught early, can be corrected without surgery
• Clumsiness - If your child stumbles over their own feet often, it may be a sign of foot positional problems.
• Warts, Nails and Skin Disorders - Rash, itchiness and deformed nails are common and easily treated.

WHY YOUR CHILD'S FOOT CARE IS IMPORTANT
Having strong, healthy feet allows your child to walk, run, and play in comfort and correct posture. If your child's feet form correctly, certain types of back and leg pain can be avoided later in life. Many adult foot problems have their origin in childhood. An examination of the lower extremity insures that your child is growing correctly. Your doctor can also make sure that your child's gait (walking analysis) is correct. This helps prevent some future foot problems, and if a problem does arise, it can be handled early, when it is easier to treat.

YOUR BABY'S FEET
A child's feet grows rapidly during the first year, reaching almost 1/2 their adult foot size. Because a baby's feet are flexible, too much pressure or strain can affect the shape of the foot. To help Insure normal growth: 1) Allow your baby to kick and stretch his or her feet; 2) Make sure shoes and socks do not squeeze the toes; 3) Change the baby's position several times a day, lying in one spot too long can put excessive strain on the feet and legs; 4) Look carefully -- If you notice anything that does not look normal, seek professional attention.

YOUR TODDLER'S FEET
Your toddler will walk when he or she is ready. Do not force a child to walk. The normal Independent walking ranges from 10-18 months. Observe the child's gait. Does the toe touch down Instead of the heal? Is the shoulder dropping on one side and uneven when the child is walking? If so talk with the doctor. If your toddler's feet are fat, flat, and floppy, don't worry. This is usually normal. Also, many toddlers toe-in, but most outgrow the problem.

WHEN FOOT CARE IS NEEDED
During a foot examination, the doctor will watch your toddler walk. [fa gait problem exists, the doctor works to identify its cause. To help with flatfeet, special shoes or functional orthotics (custom-made shoe inserts) may be prescribed. To correct mild toeing-in, your toddler may need to sit in a different position while playing or watching TV and stretching exercises may be preformed by parents. If you child's feet turn in or out a lot, night braces, corrective shoes, or splints, may be prescribed. A NEW CRS (Counter Rotational System), can be fitted to your infant or child. The CPS bar is designed with hinges which allow the infant to crawl and stand while being treated. Parents can rest assured that the child's foot problems are being treated safely and effectively. Wearing those devices can help straighten the foot as it grows.

WHEATON BRACE
In the treatment of children with bowing of the lower legs and turned-in feet, called metatarsus adductus, the latest treatment is the Wheaton Brace.

TREATMENTS
Treatments for these injuries usually consist of compression, elevation, rest, ice, and possibly custom molded heel cushions or custom arch supports, called functional orthotics. The functional orthotics are also recommended for any physical activity or contact sport.

RELATED WEBSITES
Runner's World
Injuries and Running
American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine