Pediatric Foot Care (For Children)
Expert Care for Growing Feet
Caring for children’s feet from an early age is essential for healthy development. At Mitchell Wachtel DPM, we provide comprehensive pediatric foot care to ensure your child’s feet grow strong, stay healthy, and avoid long-term problems. From flat feet and high arches to sports injuries and gait concerns, our team offers gentle, personalized treatments for children of all ages.
Early Foot Care for Babies and Toddlers
Your child’s feet develop rapidly in the first few years of life. Allowing feet to move naturally—without tight shoes—is crucial for proper growth. Soft, flexible footwear or daily barefoot time helps strengthen foot muscles, while shoes should be introduced gradually as your child begins to walk. Always ensure shoes fit well and provide enough room for natural movement.
Pediatric Flatfoot
Flat feet are common in young children and often resolve naturally. Persistent flat feet, however, may require non-invasive interventions such as custom orthotics or physical therapy. Early evaluation and treatment can prevent pain and future complications, supporting proper foot development as your child grows.
Sports and Active Children
Children involved in sports need activity-specific footwear to prevent injuries. Properly fitted shoes with a sturdy heel cup, flexible toe box, and supportive midsole are essential. Listen to your child’s complaints of foot pain, as conditions like Sever’s Disease can affect growing children aged 8–13. Preventive strategies may include protective tape, cushioned socks, or orthotic inserts to support healthy foot function and avoid injuries like plantar fasciitis.
Comprehensive Pediatric Podiatry
Dr. Wachtel provides specialized care for all pediatric foot conditions, including flat feet, high arches, in-toeing, out-toeing, toe walking, fractures, and skin or nail issues. Our offices in North Andover, Lowell, and Haverhill, MA are equipped to deliver the highest quality care in a child-friendly environment.
Early intervention is key. Monitoring and treating foot issues from a young age ensures your child can grow, play, and stay active without limitations.
Call us today at 978-794-8406 to schedule a consultation and give your child the gift of healthy, happy feet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Children should see a podiatrist if they show signs of pain, unusual gait, flat feet that persist, toe walking, or other foot abnormalities. Early evaluation helps prevent long-term problems.
Common issues include flat feet, high arches, in-toeing, out-toeing, Sever’s Disease, toe walking, fractures, and ingrown toenails. Early detection and treatment ensure healthy foot development.
Allow babies and toddlers daily barefoot time, use soft and flexible shoes, monitor foot growth, and encourage safe physical activity. Ensure socks and shoes fit properly and avoid tight footwear.
Yes. Active children should wear activity-specific shoes that fit correctly. Foot pain or reluctance to participate may indicate a sports-related injury or condition requiring podiatric attention.
Absolutely. Custom orthotics can correct gait issues, support arches, and reduce pain. They are tailored to your child’s foot shape and activity level, promoting healthy foot function.
Even if no problems are present, an annual evaluation is recommended to monitor foot growth and detect issues early. Children with known conditions may need more frequent visits.
Dr. Wachtel provides non-invasive options such as custom orthotics, physical therapy, protective taping, footwear recommendations, and exercise programs. Severe cases are carefully assessed to determine the best course of treatment.