Kids’ Feet Matter Too: When to Take Your Child to See a Podiatrist
It’s easy to notice when your child has a runny nose or a scraped knee. But their feet? That’s one area many parents overlook — until there’s a problem.
Just like teeth or eyesight, children’s feet need proper care as they grow. And the sooner issues are spotted, the easier they are to treat. The tricky bit? Kids often won’t say much until they’re in real pain.
So let’s talk about what to look for — and when it’s time to book a visit to a podiatrist in Birtley.
Growing Feet, Growing Problems
Children’s feet go through lots of changes, especially during growth spurts. But not every ache is “just growing pains.” Some foot problems can affect how your child walks, runs, and even plays.
And since feet are the foundation for your child’s posture and balance, even small issues can snowball into bigger ones over time.
Signs Your Child Might Need a Podiatrist
Keep an eye out for these red flags:
Worn-out shoes – If the soles wear down unevenly, it might point to poor walking patterns.
Flat feet or walking on tiptoes – Some of this is normal when they’re little, but if it sticks around beyond age 5–6, it’s worth checking out.
Inward or outward turning feet – Also called in-toeing or out-toeing, this can affect balance and coordination.
Frequent tripping or falling – Not just clumsiness — it might be related to foot alignment or strength.
Complaints of foot, knee, or leg pain – Especially after playing or walking, even if they shrug it off later.
Funny smells or stubborn toenail issues – Fungal infections, ingrown toenails, or verrucas can all show up at this age.
If your little one ticks one or more of these boxes, it’s a good idea to visit a foot clinic in Birtley that treats children.
What Happens at a Podiatry Appointment?
Don’t worry — it’s not scary or painful.
A podiatrist will watch how your child walks, check their foot structure, and ask a few simple questions. They might take a closer look at shoes or recommend custom insoles to support your child’s posture.
If there’s something like a verruca, an ingrown nail, or a fungal issue, treatment is gentle and tailored to children.
The goal? To keep little feet pain-free and growing in the right direction.
Why Early Action Matters
The earlier foot issues are spotted, the easier they are to correct. Leaving it too long can lead to long-term problems like knee pain, back issues, or poor posture.
And while kids bounce back quickly, untreated foot problems can limit their confidence in sports or play — and no one wants that.
Plus, many foot conditions in children are easier to fix than in adults. So why wait?
A Word About School Shoes
We can’t talk about kids’ foot care without mentioning school shoes. They wear them nearly every day for hours at a time. So it’s worth investing in quality, well-fitting pairs — and checking for outgrown shoes every few months.
Need advice on what to look for? Your podiatrist in Gateshead or Birtley Foot Clinic team can help.
In a Nutshell
Kids’ feet deserve just as much care and attention as any other part of their body. If something feels “off” — even if it seems small — it’s better to check than guess.
Think of it as giving your child the best start from the ground up.
