Paediatric
Podiatrist
SA PAEDIATRICS AND NEWBORNS ( SAPAN)
What is Paediatric Podiatry?
Paediatric podiatry is a specialised area of healthcare focused on the assessment, diagnosis, and management of foot, ankle, and lower limb conditions in infants, children, and adolescents. Healthy foot development is essential for mobility, posture, balance, and overall physical development.
A paediatric podiatrist works with children at all stages of growth to identify and manage conditions that may affect walking, running, posture, and participation in everyday activities.
Paediatric podiatrists treat a wide range of conditions, including flat feet, in-toeing or out-toeing, toe walking, heel pain, gait abnormalities, nail and skin conditions, and lower limb alignment concerns.
How can working with a Paediatric Podiatrist benefit my child?
A paediatric podiatrist can support your child in many ways, including:
- Improved walking and movement:
Assessment and management of gait and posture can help improve how your child walks, runs, and moves. - Early identification of foot and lower limb issues:
Early intervention can help prevent minor concerns from developing into long-term problems. - Reduced pain and discomfort:
Podiatry care can assist with pain related to growth, overuse, or biomechanical issues. - Support during growth and development:
Children’s feet change rapidly as they grow, and podiatry support ensures development remains on track. - Improved balance and coordination:
Addressing foot and lower limb alignment can enhance stability and overall movement quality. - Support for sports and physical activity:
Paediatric podiatrists help manage sports-related injuries and provide guidance on injury prevention.
How do I know if my child needs to see a podiatrist?
There are many signs that your child may benefit from seeing a paediatric podiatric, these may include:
Walking or gait concerns:
In-toeing, out-toeing, toe walking, or frequent tripping may indicate an underlying issue.
Flat feet or high arches:
While common in young children, some foot postures may require monitoring or treatment.
Foot or leg pain:
Persistent pain in the feet, ankles, heels, knees, or lower legs should be assessed.
Heel pain:
Conditions such as Sever’s disease are common during growth spurts and benefit from podiatry management.
Nail and skin conditions:
Ingrown toenails, warts, corns, or calluses can cause discomfort and affect activity levels.
Developmental or neurological conditions:
Children with conditions affecting muscle tone or coordination may benefit from podiatric support.
Sports-related injuries:
Active children may experience overuse injuries that require podiatry care.
*This list is not exhaustive. Every child’s development is unique, and a paediatric podiatrist can assess and recommend appropriate care based on individual needs
What will the sessions look like with my child?
A paediatric podiatry appointment begins with a thorough assessment of your child’s feet, posture, gait, and lower limb alignment. The podiatrist will also review your child’s medical history, developmental milestones, and activity levels.
Assessment may include observing how your child walks and runs, evaluating joint movement, muscle strength, and foot structure.
Treatment plans are tailored to your child’s needs and may include footwear advice, stretching or strengthening exercises, activity modification, or orthotic therapy if required.
Parents and caregivers are actively involved and provided with education and guidance to support their child’s progress at home.
Sessions are designed to be child-friendly, supportive, and age-appropriate, with the aim of improving comfort, function, and confidence.
How long will my child need to see a paediatric podiatrist?
The length of treatment depends on your child’s condition, age, and response to care. Some children may require only one or two appointments, while others may benefit from ongoing monitoring or treatment during periods of growth.
The paediatric podiatrist will regularly review your child’s progress and provide guidance on the recommended frequency and duration of appointments based on your child’s individual needs.
What if my child needs other therapies?
Paediatric podiatry often forms part of a multidisciplinary approach to care. Foot and lower limb health can influence posture, movement, and physical development, and may work alongside physiotherapy, occupational therapy, or other allied health services.
SA Paediatrics and Newborns boasts a group of allied health professionals with varied expertise who collaborate to create a personalised treatment plan that caters to your child’s complete physical, emotional, and developmental requirements. This holistic approach means that your child benefits from the highest quality care and support, which can make a significant difference in their overall health and wellbeing.
FIND OUT MORE
Contact SA Paediatrics and Newborns for more information or to book an appointment on 08 7081 9819.
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