Protect Your Children from 4 Common Summer Foot Problems

Before you know it school will be out, and children will be happy to put away books and homework and enjoy some fun summer activities. At Goldsmith Podiatry, we also know that the feet of our younger Manhattan patients will be at greater risk for certain podiatric conditions.

Here are four things we see more often over the summer months, and how to avoid them:

1.       Ankle sprains—hopefully, the summer will mean more active time for your child or teen. From sports camps to more casual neighborhood games and fun at family get-togethers, it's essential that your child wears a supportive pair of athletic footwear when engaging in physical activities. Flip flops and summer sandals do not have enough structure to protect your child's foot when running, jumping, or twisting and are often the cause of ankle sprains and other injuries when worn for more active play.

2.       Fungal infections—flip flops can help protect youngsters from another summer hazard: Fungal foot infections. Athlete’s foot, warts, and toenail fungus love moist environments (think community pools, changing areas, and restrooms) and are spread by direct contact. Keeping young feet covered will significantly reduce the risk of contracting a fungal infection. You should also instruct children not to share socks, shoes, or other items that touch someone else's feet.

3.       Heel pain—if your child’s idea of summer fun is sitting in front of a video screen, they may be at risk for another type of foot problem. Children (and adults) who like to spend their days barefoot or in slippers may find that they start to experience pain in their heels. This is because their feet are not getting enough support in the arch, which stresses the plantar fascia ligament on the bottom of the foot and results in heel pain. Another contributing factor to heel pain is weight gain—another possibility if an inactive summer is planned.

4.       Puncture wounds—cuts and puncture wounds usually increase during the summer due to barefoot walking outside and at the beach. A pair of water shoes or a simple slip-on protect feet from sharp objects hiding in the grass or under the sand.

If your child sustains a foot injury, complains of foot or ankle pain, or notices unusual changes in the appearance of their feet, make an appointment at our Upper West Side office by calling 212-877-1002. Our podiatrists, Dr. Howard Goldsmith, Dr. Rosanna Troia, and Dr. Kristina Ruff, will examine your child's feet and diagnose and treat any issues so they can return to summer fun fast!