Children are naturally active and adventurous, which makes them more prone to foot and ankle injuries in kids. While some minor bumps may heal quickly, untreated injuries can cause long-term problems for growing feet. Recognizing these injuries early allows parents to seek timely care and prevent complications.
At Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist, Dr. Dean Kim specializes in pediatric foot and ankle conditions. With gentle, child-friendly treatment and advanced diagnostics, our clinic helps young patients recover safely and get back to their favorite activities.
Common Foot and Ankle Injuries in Kids
Because children’s bones, ligaments, and muscles are still developing, their injuries often differ from those in adults. Some of the most frequent foot and ankle injuries in kids include:
- Sprains – Overstretching or tearing ligaments, often after twisting the ankle during sports or play.
- Fractures – Broken bones caused by falls, playground accidents, or collisions.
- Sever’s Disease – A leading cause of heel pain in active, growing children due to inflammation of the heel growth plate.
- Turf Toe – Injury to the big toe joint caused by repetitive bending or hyperextension.
- Stress Fractures – Tiny cracks in bones from repetitive overuse, common in young athletes.
Each of these injuries requires different treatment approaches, and professional evaluation is important for proper healing.
7 Signs of Foot and Ankle Injuries in Kids
Children may not always communicate pain clearly, so parents should watch for these symptoms:
- Limping or refusing to put weight on the foot
- Swelling, bruising, or redness around the ankle or heel
- Complaints of pain during running, walking, or physical activity
- Difficulty moving the ankle, toes, or foot normally
- Visible deformity or unusual positioning of the foot
- Sudden changes in walking balance or gait
- Ongoing discomfort after a twist, fall, or sports injury
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to consult a podiatrist promptly.
When to See a Podiatrist for Foot and Ankle Injuries in Kids
Minor bumps often heal at home, but some injuries require expert care. Contact Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist if your child experiences:
- Pain lasting more than a few days
- Severe swelling or visible deformity
- Inability to walk or bear weight without pain
- Tingling, numbness, or loss of sensation in toes or feet
- Redness, warmth, or fever that could signal infection
At our clinic, Dr. Dean Kim uses advanced diagnostics like X-rays and ultrasound to identify the injury accurately and recommend the right treatment.
Treatment Options for Kids’ Foot and Ankle Injuries
The treatment plan depends on the severity and type of injury, but common approaches include:
- RICE Therapy – Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation for sprains and minor trauma
- Protective support – Braces, special shoes, or CAM boots to protect healing bones
- Physical therapy – Exercises to restore flexibility, balance, and strength
- Surgery – Rarely required but used in severe ligament tears or complex fractures
The goal is always to support healing while preventing long-term complications.
Preventing Foot and Ankle Injuries in Kids
Parents can reduce the risk of injuries by teaching children to:
- Wear well-fitted shoes with proper support
- Stretch and warm up before playing sports
- Avoid running on uneven or extremely hard surfaces
- Take breaks and rest if they feel pain or fatigue
For more prevention strategies, explore our pediatric podiatry services.
Expert Pediatric Foot Care in Texas
At Greater Texas Foot & Ankle Specialist, Dr. Dean Kim is dedicated to helping children heal quickly, safely, and comfortably. Whether it’s a sprain, fracture, or persistent heel pain, our team ensures your child receives personalized care for foot and ankle injuries in kids.
Call us today at 469-384-2135 to schedule your child’s foot and ankle evaluation. Early diagnosis is the key to healthy growth and pain-free play.
Don’t Wait to Get Help
Untreated injuries can affect mobility and long-term development. Trust Dr. Dean Kim and his team for expert pediatric foot care tailored to young patients.
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