Pediatric Foot And Ankle Deformity Specialist

When should my child see a foot and ankle specialist?

There are a few different situations that call for help from a pediatric foot and ankle specialist. 

Persistent pain

If your child has persistent foot or ankle pain, whether caused by an obvious deformity or with no clear cause, it's important to get it checked out before the problem can worsen. 

Foot or ankle irregularity

If you notice an irregularity or deformity in your child's feet or ankles, like flat feet, extremely high arches, or a bunion on the side of their big toe, it's best to see a specialist promptly.

Walking problems

Walking problems, whether from an irregular gait, pointing toes inward while walking, or something else, are often directly related to deformity and are very treatable. 

The Great Lakes Foot and Ankle team is glad to evaluate all foot and ankle deformities to help your child stay healthy and safe.

What are pediatric foot and ankle deformities?

Children's foot and ankle deformities may be obvious at birth, but they can also show up in toddlerhood or later. Some pediatric foot and ankle deformities include:

• Accessory navicular: Extra bone or cartilage above the foot arch
• Brachymetatarsia: Underdeveloped toe, usually the fourth toe
• Bunion: A bony bump at the bottom of the big toe
• Clubfoot: One or both feet turn inward
• Cavus foot: Very high foot arches
• Flatfoot: Lack of foot arches
• Intoeing: Toes point toward each other when walking
• Out-toeing: Toes point widely outward when walking
• Polydactyly: Extra toe, which can range from a tiny bump to a full toe
• Syndactyly: Webbing between toes
• Tarsal coalition: Tarsal bone fusion causing rigid flatfoot and limited foot motion
• Vertical talus: Ankle development problem causing the foot to point upward

Many other types of foot and ankle deformities develop in children, as well. If you're concerned about the appearance, the function, or any other aspect of your child's feet and ankles, Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute is ready to perform a gentle evaluation.

How do you treat childhood foot and ankle deformity?

The Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute team is here to find the very best and most comfortable solutions for your child. Every situation is unique, but when you get foot and ankle deformity diagnosis early, the chances of a noninvasive solution are very good. Sometimes, treatment is as simple as custom orthotics or changes in your child's footwear. 

For more serious deformities, your child may need braces, casting, or surgical correction. Dealing with the issue now means that your child can walk, run, play, and enjoy life to its fullest as they grow up. 

Book your child's evaluation at Great Lakes Foot and Ankle Institute by phone or with online booking today.