Solving children’s foot pain

Posted on: 20 March 2015

Your feet may be one of the last parts of your body you think about when it comes to avoiding health problems and complications, but when your feet are in pain, your whole body can be affected. Many common ailments like bunions and hammer toes can be avoided with a few simple changes to what you wear and how you take care of your feet. In turn, you'll have less foot pain and may even be able to maintain proper posture and alleviate pressure on your hips and other joints. Note a few simple tips in this regard.

1. Always Look for Arch Support in Shoes and Sandals

Flat shoes can lead to flat feet and in turn, foot and joint pain. Flat feet can mean more pressure on your joints including hips and knees, as your legs tend to curve inward when you have flat feet.

Your feet need arch support from your shoes and sandals, but unfortunately this is often overlooked when buying new shoes. A good choice is to look for shoes and sandals that outright advertise as having proper arch support. The middle of the shoe should curve upwards to help support how your feet curve in this area, and in turn this will protect your arches.

2. Choose or Add Cushioning for Your Shoes

Shoes with extra cushioning will absorb more impact as you walk, but this too is often overlooked when buying new shoes. If you have shoes that include very little cushioning on the sole or inside of the shoe, add this with insoles you purchase. Gel insoles or those with memory foam can mean less impact reaches your feet and ankles every time you walk and in turn, your feet are protected. This is especially important for sneakers if you jog or walk throughout the day, as this constant pounding puts added stress and strain on your toes, heels, and ankles.

3. Pamper Your Feet

One of the best ways to avoid common foot ailments is to pamper your feet with regular massages and by soaking them in hot water. The hot water will increase blood circulation to your feet and cause their muscles to relax. A massage will not only do the same, but it's also a good chance for you to examine your feet and note any developing problems. You can see if your toes are starting to curve or if you have bunions and other obvious injuries. This allows you to see a podiatrist (like those at My Foot Clinic) before these problems become more serious.