Foot and ankle pain in children can happen for many reasons, especially during growth and sports activities. Repeated running, jumping, and minor injuries often place stress on developing bones, joints, and soft tissue. Some children may have heel pain from growth plate irritation. Others may develop pain from flat feet, ankle sprains, or overuse injuries. Younger children may limp or avoid putting weight on the foot, while older children can usually point to the exact area of pain. Swelling, stiffness, or pain that gets worse with activity should not be ignored. A podiatrist can examine how the child walks, check foot structure and joint movement, and order imaging tests to confirm the cause. Treatment includes custom orthotics, bracing, or other care to reduce pain and protect healthy growth. If your child exhibits foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for expert advice and guidance.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Darren Day, DPM of Hawaii. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Honolulu and Kahuku, HI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel fissures are cracks in thickened skin on the heels that can become painful if not treated. The skin in these areas is often drier and less flexible than healthy skin, which makes it more likely to split under pressure. Research shows that this type of thickened skin behaves differently from normal skin, especially in how it holds moisture and stretches. These differences can help guide care. In some cases, heel calluses and fissures can be grouped based on how hydrated and elastic the skin is, even when the surface feels similar. Dry, stiff skin is more prone to cracking, especially with standing, walking, or wearing open-back shoes. Regular moisturizing and proper foot support can help prevent worsening. If cracks become deep, painful, or do not improve, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate care.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Darren Day, DPM from Hawaii. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Honolulu and Kahuku, HI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.