As infants and toddlers grow, their feet go through various developmental stages that require different types of footwear. In the early stages, when babies are crawling and shuffling, barefoot is often best as it allows for natural movement. However, if footwear for your child is necessary for protection, their shoes should be soft, flexible, and roomy to accommodate delicate feet. Pre-walking shoes offer gentle support and protection while still allowing for free movement of the toes and heels. As toddlers begin to walk independently, they will need more structured shoes for support, especially as they spend more time on their feet. At this stage, it is important to focus on fit, as poorly fitting shoes can cause discomfort, even though toddlers may not be able to communicate this. When children reach the toddler and preschool stages, they require footwear that promotes coordination and accommodates their growing feet. For guidance on the kind of shoes needed for your child, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for expert advice and guidance.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Cleveland Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Cleveland, Independence, and Kent, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.