Feet don't fully turn to bone until a person is in the 20's. A child's feet are forming as they grow and are more susceptible to the everyday forces of walking and running. By wearing good well fitting shoes and checking a child feet often then they should develop normally.

We worry about every aspect of our children's health yet the feet and the health of those feet can be ignored and taken for granted. By taking a few simple steps we can minimize foot problems that can lead to further problems later in life.

A comfortable and pain free child is a happy child that will develop well and take the very best from life. If painful feet are left untreated then it can lead to distraction and cause concentration to waver. It may affect the child socially as they may not be able to keep up with other children or may even lead to bullying as gait and posture is effected to compensate for foot pain.

Some tips for healthy happy children's feet

> Take a moment to look at how your child walks. Encourage them to toe off the front of their foot. If you child wants to walk with their toes pointing inwards or outwards then this can lead to foot problems.

> Don't wait for your child to grow out of their shoes. React quickly and replace shoes as they are needed. Don't let growing feet get squashed into ill fitting shoes.

> Make sure that socks are the correct size and are fitted well. Don't allow them to gather or bunch up causing pressure on parts of the foot.

> Cut toe nails straight across without curving the nail in at the edges.

> If you notice any unusual walking or standing such as knock knees or flat foot then consult a professional as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

If you have any questions about your child's foot care then call for a friendly no obligation chat.