Paediatric Conditions

Podiatry for Children: Why Early Care Matters

As parents in Singapore, we love watching our children grow — from their first steps at home to running freely at playgrounds in Bishan Park or chasing friends during PE lessons. But sometimes, little feet don’t move the way we expect. A child who always trips, complains of sore legs, or walks with their feet turned in may just seem “a bit clumsy,” but these can be early signs of children’s foot conditions that need attention.

This is where podiatry for children comes in.

What is Paediatric Podiatry?

Paediatric podiatry is a branch of podiatry that focuses specifically on the foot and lower limb health of children. Just as kids need paediatricians for their growth, dentists for their teeth, and optometrists for their eyes, they may also need a children’s foot specialist when problems with walking, running, or foot pain arise.

Children’s bones, muscles, and joints are still developing. Early support can make a huge difference in their growth, confidence, and overall activity level.

Common Children’s Foot Conditions

Parents often wonder if their child’s walking pattern is “normal.” Here are some conditions that our podiatrists frequently see in children:

• Flat feet – While flat feet can be common in toddlers, if they persist with pain or affect balance, they may require treatment.

• In-toeing or out-toeing – Often noticed when kids walk or run awkwardly, these may cause frequent tripping.

• Heel pain – Especially in active children who play sports; this can affect performance and enjoyment.

• Growing pains – Sometimes linked to biomechanical issues in the feet and legs.

While some of these conditions may improve as a child grows, persistent or painful symptoms should not be ignored.

Why Early Care Matters

Imagine your child sitting out of recess games because their feet hurt, or avoiding sports because running feels uncomfortable. These little setbacks can affect not only physical development but also self-confidence. Early podiatry care helps children stay active, participate fully in school activities, and enjoy a healthy lifestyle.

With the right support, children can overcome discomfort and thrive in their daily adventures.

When to See a Children’s Foot Specialist

You may want to consider visiting a children’s foot specialist if you notice:

• Your child often trips or avoids running.

• They complain of foot, leg, or heel pain.

• You notice unusual walking patterns (such as limping, in-toeing, or out-toeing).

• You think they may have flat feet.

• Shoes wear out unevenly or very quickly.

Our podiatrist can assess your child’s walking, provide guidance on footwear, and recommend management such as exercises, orthoses (custom insoles or supramalleolar orthoses), or lifestyle adjustments.

Supporting Your Child’s Steps

Childhood should be filled with play, exploration, and confidence. By paying attention to early signs of possible foot conditions and seeking help from our paediatric podiatrists, parents can give their children the best start in staying active and healthy.

At Straits Podiatry, our podiatrists understand the unique needs of growing feet. With gentle, child-friendly care, we help kids put their best foot forward — quite literally.

If you’ve noticed your child struggling with foot pain or walking difficulties, don’t wait until it becomes a bigger issue. Book an appointment with our podiatrists today and take the first step towards healthier, happier feet.