If you look after your baby’s feet correctly from the start you will help avoid problems later on.

A baby’s foot starts of as mainly cartilage which is very soft and flexible at birth.  This develops into bone as baby grows. They also have large fat pads which are why all babies look flat footed.  Their feet are very malleable so you need to avoid tight socks, clothing (with feet in) or shoes as you can easily push their foot out of shape.  The first few years are crucial as this is when the bones are formed form the cartilage.

Before your baby is learning to walk, shoes are not necessary, leave baby barefoot or in loose socks and tickle their feet occasionally to encourage kicking to exercise the foot muscles.

When your baby is learning to walk, let them have plenty of barefoot time as this allows the feet to develop and strengthen without restriction.  When walking outdoors use flexible, breathable soft sole shoes only.

Children’s feet may grow up to 2 sizes per year until the age of 5, so it is very important to regularly check the fit of your child’s shoe. The shoe must be wide enough not to cramp the foot and you should have about 18mm spare at the front of the shoe. Take your child to a shoe shop where they will carefully measure your child’s foot.  Check your child’s foot for red marks when you take their shoes off – this is a sign that the shoe is not fitting well.

Tips to help baby’s feet develop naturally:

·         Let baby walk on his own but remember  if he asks to be carried  his feet may be tired

·         Walk at baby’s pace – don’t drag him along

·         Alternate which hand you hold to avoid developing a lopsided walk

Foot Abnormalities

If you have any concerns about your child’s foot speak to your child health nurse, paediatric Physio or paediatric Podiatrist.

Some common conditions:

·         Talipes or club foot where baby’s foot turns inwards – treatment by a Paediatric Physio may include: stretches, splinting / bracing and in severe cases referral for surgery.

·         Flat feet:   All babies are born with flat feet, but if your child’s foot continues to be flat after 3 years then make an appointment to see a Paediatric Physio or Podiatrist for treatment

·         In toe-ing or Out toe-ing:  If this doesn’t correct itself as your child becomes more confident with walking then make an appointment to see a Paediatric Physio or Podiatrist for treatment

Disclaimer  

Tummies, Mummies and Bubbies have provided these articles for general information only and they should in no way be considered as a substitute for the advice and information your physiotherapist and or doctor will supply about your particular condition. It is recommended that you always seek professional advice.

While every effort has been made to ensure that the information is accurate, Tummies, Mummies and Bubbies accept no responsibility and cannot guarantee the consequences if you choose to rely upon these contents as your sole source of information.