The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) recently launched a new online resource called ‘First Steps: Keeping Children’s Feet Healthy and Happy’ that’s designed to provide the public with a wide range of information about keeping children’s feet healthy.
The ‘First Steps’ educational source touts the importance of having kids see medical professionals at a young age to ensure their feet will be healthy as they grow up. "It's important that parents pay close attention to children's feet even before they start to walk, beginning at birth and continuing as they take their first steps, go to school, and participate in sports," said APMA President Frank Spinosa.
By introducing kids to good foot care habits you can make sure their feet will stay healthy as they age. For help with keeping children’s feet healthy, talk to a podiatrist like Dr. Andrew H. Cohen of Mid-Michigan Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Cohen can teach you about different ways to keep kids’ lower extremities clean and free of injury.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet in childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care from birth to school-age.
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
· Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet
· Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. Be sure the child wears comfortable and protective shoes so that they can grow into their feet properly.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet
- Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus
- Be watchful of any pain or injury
- Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible
- Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play
If you have any questions, contact one of our offices located in Saginaw, MI and Essexville, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Keeping Children’s Feet Healthy.