Service
Paediatric podiatry (children's feet)
Paediatric podiatry looks after children's foot and lower limb development: growing pains, heel pain, flat feet, walking and running concerns, and sports injuries in young athletes.
Many childhood foot issues are a normal part of growing and settle on their own. A big part of the job is working out what genuinely needs treatment and what simply needs reassurance and monitoring.
How paediatric podiatry helps children
- Heel pain in active children, see Sever's disease
- Flat feet and arch concerns
- In-toeing, out-toeing and walking patterns
- Growing pains and lower limb aches
- Sports injuries and niggles in young athletes
- Footwear advice as feet grow
When to bring your child in
- They complain of foot, heel or leg pain
- They are limping, tripping often, or pulling out of sport
- You have concerns about how they walk or run
- A coach, teacher, Plunket or GP check has flagged something
The approach
Honest and reassuring. Children's feet change quickly as they grow, and most differences are normal variations that resolve on their own. When treatment does help, options include footwear guidance, activity and load advice, simple strengthening, and orthotics only where they are genuinely needed.
Common questions
At what age can my child see a podiatrist?
Any age. If you have a concern about their feet, walking or running, it is worth getting it checked.
Do flat feet in children need treatment?
Usually not. Flat feet are normal in young children and arches typically develop over time. Treatment is only needed if there is pain or difficulty.
Do children need orthotics?
Rarely, and only when clearly warranted.
