Foot Care Specialist Dr. Benjamin Weaver Shares How to Protect Your Child’s Foot Health
As the school year begins, parents diligently ensure their children have all the tools they need for success. However, one crucial aspect of back-to-school preparation often goes overlooked is proper foot care. The feet, bearing the weight of backpacks and the stress of playground activities, play a pivotal role in a child's overall health and academic performance. Wichita podiatrist Dr. Benjamin Weaver explains the essential nail and skin care tips parents need to know to protect their children's foot health throughout the school year and beyond.
Say Goodbye to Ingrown Toenails For Children
Ingrown toenails can cause significant pain and impact every step your child takes. They happen when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to redness, swelling, and discomfort.
To keep your child's toes in tip-top shape:
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- Trim toenails straight across, not rounded at the edges
- Ensure shoes fit properly with enough room in the toe box
- Encourage your child to wear breathable socks made of natural fibers
If you notice your child wincing when they walk or complaining of toe pain, it's time to visit our Wichita foot doctor at Central Kansas Podiatry Associates. Professional treatment can provide quick relief and prevent complications.
Wage the War on Warts For Children's Feet
Warts may be a witch's best friend, but they have no place on your child's feet. These stubborn viral infections can spread quickly in warm, moist environments like locker rooms and swimming pools.
There are several tips to consider when preventing warts.
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- Remind your child never to go barefoot in public areas
- Provide flip-flops or water shoes for use in communal showers
- Teach your child not to share towels, socks, or shoes with friends
If you spot a suspicious bump on your child's foot, don't wait. Our Wichita podiatrist can offer effective treatments to banish warts and prevent their spread.
Tackle Children's Athlete's Foot Head-On
Tinea Pedis, commonly known as Athlete's foot, isn't just for athletes. This fungal infection can affect anyone – even children. It causes itchy, scaly skin between the toes and on the soles of the feet.
To prevent Athlete’s foot:
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- Encourage your child to dry their feet thoroughly after bathing or swimming
- Provide clean, dry socks daily and after physical activities
- Consider using an antifungal powder in shoes and on feet
If your child complains of itchy, burning feet, a visit to our Wichita podiatrist can provide relief and prevent the infection from spreading to toenails or other family members.
Step Up Your Shoe Game For Children's Foot Health
The right shoes can make all the difference in your child's foot health and overall comfort during long school days. When shoe shopping:
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- Have your child's feet measured professionally at the start of each school year
- Look for shoes with a wide and flexible toe box
- Choose breathable materials like mesh to reduce moisture
Remember, shoes that fit well today may be too small in a few months. Regularly check the fit to ensure your child's feet have room to grow.
Schedule a Back-to-School Foot Check-Up With Our Wichita Podiatrist
As the school year approaches, it's essential to ensure your child's feet are ready for the demands of a busy school day. Just as you prioritize annual physicals and dental check-ups, a foot check-up should be part of your back-to-school routine. A visit to our Wichita podiatrist can help identify potential issues early, preventing them from becoming painful problems later on.
During the check-up, our podiatrist will:
- Evaluate your child’s gait and foot structure. Understanding how your child walks and the structure of their feet is crucial for identifying any abnormalities that could lead to discomfort or injury.
- Address concerns such as flat feet or other foot conditions. Flat feet, high arches, or other structural conditions can sometimes go unnoticed but may cause problems over time. Our podiatrist will examine your child’s feet for these conditions and discuss any potential impacts on their daily activities or sports participation.
- Provide professional guidance on proper footwear. The right footwear is essential for healthy feet, especially for children whose feet are still growing. Our experienced Wichita podiatrist, Dr. Weaver, can recommend shoes with adequate support, cushioning, and fit for your child’s unique needs.