Children’s podiatry (or pediatric podiatry) is one of the main reasons for consultation in podiatry clinics.

The pediatric podiatry service consists of the evaluation and treatment of possible structural and functional alterations or defects in the musculoskeletal and foot systems of children, as well as of the back, hip, knee, and ankle, to ensure proper growth and development of the child.

A podiatrist visit for a gait analysis is very important—not only in cases where a child shows signs of walking issues, pain while walking or exercising—but also when the parents do not observe any abnormalities. This allows for prevention of future problems that could affect the child into adulthood.

The most common issues in children consist of:

• Flat feet
• Valgus foot
• Equinus foot (toe walking)
• Genu valgum (knock knees)
• Toe deformities
• Sever’s disease (heel pain during growth phase)
• Dermatological conditions such as plantar warts or nail conditions such as ingrown toenails

The visit involves a comprehensive biomechanical gait analysis, assessing not only walking patterns but also the joints of the feet and ankles, knees, hips, and the entire body in unison. A diagnosis is made, and if necessary, a treatment plan is implemented.

In the case of children, it is of vital importance to conduct routine periodic check-ups to monitor the progression of their gait and thus ensure the success of the treatment.

Don’t leave your children’s future to chance, at Clínica Navarro, we can help ensure they get off to a great start.