There isn't a one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the timing of your first podiatry in Windsor visit will depend on your child's individual needs. However, there are some guidelines you can follow to help you decide when to take your little one in for their first checkup. In this post, we'll discuss the common reasons parents bring their children to the podiatrist and provide some advice on when it's the best time to schedule an appointment. Keep reading for more information!
Skin and Nail Conditions
If your child has any of the following symptoms, it's a good idea to bring them in for an exam:
- Athlete's foot (tinea pedis)
- Dry skin that is cracking or peeling
- Skin infections, including staphylococcal and streptococcal infections
- Calluses due to pressure or friction on the feet
- Warts on fingers or toes that are painful or not going away with standard treatment
If you notice any concerns with your child's feet or lower limbs, it is important to bring them in for an appointment so that the condition can be properly diagnosed and treated. Early intervention is often key in preventing further problems down the road. If you are unsure whether or not your child should see a podiatrist, please don't hesitate to speak to your child's pediatrician for more guidance.
Sports Injury
If your child is a competitive athlete, he or she should see a podiatrist. Likewise, if your child is a recreational athlete (playing sports for fun and exercise) that participates in sports that require him or her to run long distances, jump high in the air, and land on their feet often—such as basketball, football, soccer, and volleyball—a foot doctor can help prevent injuries from occurring.
As an adult who has been diagnosed with bunions or hammertoes as well as plantar fasciitis (heel spurs), I can tell you how important it is to make sure your feet are properly cared for right now, so they don't start bothering you later in life!
Foot and Lower Leg Pain
Your child's pediatric podiatrist is a perfect resource for all of your foot and lower leg pain questions. Generally, if you have any concerns about the health of your child's feet, it is best to consult with your pediatrician first. Your pediatrician will probably refer you to a podiatrist if necessary.
If one of the following applies to your child:
- They are limping
- They are complaining of foot pain or ankle pain
- Their ability to walk or run has been reduced due to foot or ankle problems (such as flat feet)
- You notice that their toe joints appear swollen or red in color
Tripping/Falls/Clumsiness
It's normal for kids to trip, fall and be clumsier than adults. But if your child has recently tripped or fallen a lot more than usual, it might be time to see the podiatrist.
Your child may have a sensory processing disorder (SPD) that affects their balance. SPD can cause clumsiness and problems with balance. A sensory processing disorder is a condition that affects how people process information from the senses of sight, hearing, touch, smell, taste and movement in space (proprioception). The severity of SPD varies widely from person to child but often affects coordination and gross motor skills such as walking or running without looking where they're going. Some children with SPD actually seem like they're "drunk" when they walk because they aren't paying attention when moving their limbs around while walking stairs etc.
Physical therapy
Physical therapy can be used to treat a variety of foot and lower leg conditions. It's an effective treatment for children and adults alike.
Physical therapy is most commonly used to treat patients with foot injuries, such as injured ankles or fractures. But physical therapists can also help people recover from surgery on their feet or legs, which often involves using casts to immobilize the affected area until it heals completely. Physical therapists also use heat therapy, ultrasound, and massage techniques to help improve circulation in the lower body.
Conclusion
There are a number of situations where you should bring your child to the Podiatrist in South Yarra as soon as possible. If they have any of these issues, it is important that they get checked out right away.