Monitoring Growth in Children

Overview

Children’s feet are continually developing. Because the bones of growing feet are relatively flexible, changes in alignment can occur without a child noticing. Regularly observing your child’s walking and running patterns helps pick up early signs that may benefit from podiatry input.

What Parents Can Watch For

• Gait patterns such as in-toeing / out-toeing, frequent tripping, or uneven shoe wear
• Flat feet that don’t improve with age, knock-knees that look excessive, or limping after activity
• Pain complaints in the heels, shins, knees or feet, or reluctance to join sports and play
• Changes in toenails or skin (ingrown nails, blisters, callus) related to shoe fit

Simple Checks Make a Big Difference

A quick look at footwear and walking pattern can prevent issues later.

Footwear Matters

Check that school and sport shoes aren’t too tight, especially across the toes and around the heel. Tight or poorly-fitting footwear can restrict movement and may hinder normal development. Supportive, well-fitted shoes with a firm heel counter and flexible forefoot are recommended for active kids.

When to See a Podiatrist

Book an assessment if you notice any of the following:

• In-toeing / out-toeing that persists or worsens with age
• Frequent tripping, pain, swelling or limping
• One foot or leg behaving differently from the other
• Ongoing footwear problems (blisters, ingrown nails, pressure marks)

Even when things look normal, an annual podiatry visit for a foot health review can be helpful during growth years.

Progressive Foot-Related Behaviours (Milestones)

Typical movement milestones provide a simple reference for parents. If your child is significantly early/late or has ongoing pain or difficulty with any of these, book a podiatry review.

• ~8 months: sits independently
• ~10 months: crawls
• ~12 months: stands alone, walks with support
• ~15 months: walks alone, crawls up stairs
• ~18 months: walks well
• 2–3 years: runs well; may climb stairs
• ~4 years: runs well; may ascend/descend stairs
• ~5 years: skips and hops

Growing Bodies, Changing Feet

Small adjustments early keep kids comfortable, active and confident.

Quick Home Check List

• Watch your child walk from behind and from the side
• Inspect shoes for tightness or uneven wear
• Ask about pain after sport or long days at school
• Review shoe fit every 3–6 months during growth spurts
• Book a review if anything concerns you