Children’s Foot & Leg Pain

Foot and leg pain in children is common and can be worrying for parents. Some issues relate to normal growth and resolve on their own; others benefit from podiatry input.

Common concerns parents raise

We are often asked to review children who:

• Complain of sore feet, ankles, shins or knees after activity
• Have heel pain that makes running or sport difficult
• Trip frequently or appear clumsy
• Have very flat feet or feet that roll in strongly
• Develop callus, skin or nail problems earlier than expected

Possible causes of children’s foot and leg pain

Issues we commonly see include:

• Growth-related heel pain and other traction apophysitis
• Overuse pain from rapid increases in sport or training
• Flat feet or alignment issues contributing to fatigue
• Footwear that does not match the child’s activity or foot shape

Our task is to distinguish between normal variations and problems needing treatment.

How we assess children

Assessments are calm and child-focused. We typically:

• Take a history from the child and parent or carer
• Examine joints, muscles and growth plates around the feet and legs
• Observe walking and, where useful, running and hopping
• Review school and sports footwear

Treatment options

Management depends on the diagnosis and may include:

• Education about normal growth patterns and expected timeframes
• Activity and load modification for painful conditions
• Strength and flexibility exercises suitable for the child’s age
• Footwear advice and, when appropriate, orthotics
• Ongoing review through our dedicated children’s podiatry service

Children we see

We see school-aged children and teenagers involved in a wide range of sports and activities, as well as younger children where parents are concerned about walking patterns or foot shape.

Children’s podiatry in Forest Hill

Our Forest Hill clinic regularly reviews children from surrounding suburbs including Forest Hill, Vermont and Nunawading.

Book an appointment for children’s foot or leg pain

If you are concerned about your child’s feet or legs, a podiatry assessment can provide reassurance and clear guidance. You can book online or contact the clinic.