Experts emphasize that the most common foot problems in children are flatfoot, in-toeing, toe-walking, ingrown toenails, and fungal infections, and they highlight that incorrect stepping or foot deformities can also lead to knee, hip, and lower back pain, posture disorders, and even spinal issues such as scoliosis.
Pointing to the role of podology in children’s foot health, Podologist Muharrem Tosun stated: “Podology is a scientific field specialized in foot health. Podological examinations specific to children should begin at the ages of 3–4. At this stage, gait patterns and foot bone development can be observed more clearly.”
Addressing debates about leather versus synthetic shoes for school-age children, Tosun added: “When choosing shoes, comfort, flexible soles, and the correct size should be the primary criteria.”
Instructor Muharrem Tosun of Üsküdar University Vocational School of Health Services, Podology Program, spoke about foot health during childhood.
What are the most common foot problems in children?
Listing the most frequent foot problems in children, Tosun said: “Flatfoot, in-toeing, toe-walking, ingrown toenails, and fungal infections are common problems in children. If not detected early, these can lead to more serious issues later on.”
Tosun emphasized that these problems are not limited to the feet alone: “Incorrect stepping or foot deformities affect not only the feet but the entire skeletal system. They can pave the way for knee, hip, and lower back pain, posture disorders, and even spinal problems such as scoliosis.”
Problems can be diagnosed early
Highlighting the role of podology in children’s foot health, Tosun explained: “Podology is a branch of science specialized in foot health. Podologists can examine the structure of children’s feet and diagnose potential problems at an early stage. Podological examinations specific to children should be conducted starting at the age of 3–4. At this stage, gait patterns and foot bone development can be observed more clearly.”
Stating that children’s foot structure differs from that of adults, Tosun noted: Children’s foot bones are still in the developmental stage, and therefore much more flexible. Choosing the wrong shoes or shoes with hard soles during this period can more quickly lead to permanent problems.”
Flexible soles and proper fit are crucial for school-aged children
Touching on the impact of shoe choice on children’s foot health, Instructor Muharrem Tosun continued: “Incorrect shoe preferences are one of the leading causes of mechanical problems such as ingrown toenails and calluses that we see in feet today, as well as forefoot deformities like hallux valgus and claw/hammer toes. These negatively affect children’s quality of life. It should also be emphasized that what truly matters is not so much the material of the shoe, but whether it properly supports the foot and allows it to breathe. Rather than debating leather versus synthetic, especially for school-aged children, the priorities in shoe selection should be comfort, flexible soles, and the correct size.”
What are the risks of sports activities for foot health?
Explaining the risks that sports activities can pose to children’s foot health, Tosun said: “In sports like football and basketball, there is a risk of sprains and impact injuries; in activities such as ballet, issues like ingrown and deformed toenails can arise; while in running activities, fungal infections of the feet may occur. Proper footwear, protective equipment, and regular check-ups reduce these risks. One point I want to highlight is that especially during football and basketball, when children step on each other’s feet or experience trauma, we often encounter what we call subungual hematomas, that is, blood accumulating under the toenail, usually in the big toes, which can lead to nail loss. If parents take their child to a podologist within two days in such cases, nail loss can be prevented, thus avoiding potential nail bed problems in the future.”
Walking barefoot supports foot development
Offering advice to parents on how to protect their children’s foot health, Tosun said: “It is important to observe the child’s walking pattern, ensure their shoes are not too tight, and promptly consult a specialist if there is pain or swelling in the foot. Additionally, allowing children to walk barefoot on different surfaces (such as sand or grass) supports foot development.”
Children should use at least two pairs of daily shoes alternately
Listing his practical recommendations for maintaining foot health in children, Tosun added: “When buying shoes for children, always shop in the evening because feet can swell and increase by about half to one size during the day. Children should have at least two pairs of daily shoes to be worn alternately. Wearing the same pair constantly prevents the insole from drying out, which increases the risk of fungal infections and bad odor. Pay attention to foot hygiene, and socks should be changed daily and made of cotton or bamboo. Toenails should be cut straight across and not too short. Every 5–6 months, children’s foot sizes should be measured, and the compatibility with their shoes should be checked. Do not neglect your children’s feet.”