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Written by
Ng Jia Lin
Principal Podiatrist at Physio & Sole Clinic and Women & Children’s Centre
A senior podiatrist with extensive experience in complex wound management, formerly leading diabetic foot care at Khoo Teck Puat Hospital and helped to establish Singapore’s first diabetic foot unit. She is also passionate about paediatric foot conditions, providing holistic, multidisciplinary care to help patients recover with confidence.
Many parents assume that their children will naturally “grow out of” foot problems. While some changes in the feet are part of normal development. However, persistent pain, unusual walking patterns, or recurring foot issues may signal an underlying condition that needs attention.
Children are often very active, and they may not always clearly explain when something feels wrong. Instead, the warning signs may appear through how they walk, how often they trip, or their reluctance to participate in sports and physical activities.
Recognising these early signs allows your children to seek timely care and prevent small issues from becoming more serious problems later on. Here are seven signs your child may benefit from seeing a podiatrist.
1. Your Child Frequently Complains of Foot Pain
Occasional discomfort after intense physical activity can be normal. However, regular or persistent foot pain is not typical for children and should not be ignored.
Your child may mention pain:
- After sports or running
- When walking long distances
- During physical education classes
- At the end of the day
Foot pain in children can sometimes be linked to conditions such as flat feet, overuse injuries, or biomechanical issues affecting how the foot functions. A podiatrist can assess the structure and movement of the feet to determine the underlying cause. If your child regularly complains of discomfort, it may help to learn more about the common causes of paediatric foot pain.
2. Your Child Walks Differently or Has an Unusual Gait
Parents may sometimes notice that their child walks or runs differently compared to other children.
Examples include:
- Toe walking
- Walking with feet turning inward or outward (in-toeing/out-toeing/Pigeon toe)
- Limping
- Uneven walking patterns
- Awkward running posture
These gait abnormalities may indicate issues that are related to muscle tightness, joint alignment, or foot structure. Changes in walking patterns, such as toe walking or inward turning feet, may require further evaluation. In some cases, a gait assessment for children can help identify the underlying cause.
3. Your Child Trips or Falls More Often Than Other Children
If your child seems unusually clumsy or frequently trips, it may be worth looking at their foot mechanics.
Poor foot alignment or instability can affect:
- Balance
- Coordination
- Stability when running or jumping
Flat feet or weak foot muscles may sometimes contribute to frequent stumbling. A podiatrist can evaluate how your child’s feet interact with the ground during movement and recommend strategies to improve stability.
4. Your Child Has Persistent Heel Pain
Heel pain is one of the most common foot complaints in active children, particularly during growth spurts.
One possible cause is Sever’s disease, a condition that occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes irritated due to repeated stress and pressure.
Children with heel pain may experience:
- Pain in the back or bottom of the heel
- Discomfort during sports
- Pain that worsens after running or jumping
- Tenderness when pressure is applied to the heel
This condition is especially common in children who participate in activities such as football, basketball, athletics, or other running-based sports.
5. Your Child Has Flat Feet That Cause Pain or Fatigue
Flat feet are common in young children, and many cases are harmless. However, flat feet that cause discomfort, fatigue, or difficulty walking may require evaluation.
Signs that flat feet may be problematic include:
- Tired legs after walking
- Pain in the arch or heel
- Difficulty keeping up with peers during activities
- Feet rolling inward excessively
Some parents also ask whether their child needs insoles when they have flat feet. In some cases, foot problems may also be linked to poorly fitted footwear. Certain shoe designs may place unnecessary stress on growing feet. Supportive footwear, exercises, or custom orthotics may help improve comfort and function.
6. Your Child Develops Ingrown Toenails or Nail Problems
Ingrown toenails can occur in children and may become painful if left untreated.
Common signs include:
- Redness around the nail
- Swelling or tenderness
- Pain when wearing shoes
- Discharge or infection around the nail edge
Ingrown toenails may develop due to tight footwear, improper nail trimming, or trauma to the toe. A podiatrist can treat the condition safely and guide proper nail care to prevent recurrence.
7. Your Child Avoids Physical Activities Because of Foot Discomfort
Sometimes the signs are less obvious. Instead of directly complaining about pain, a child may start avoiding activities they once enjoyed.
You might notice your child:
- Avoids running or sports
- Prefers sitting out during PE lessons
- Stops participating in physical activities
- Appears reluctant to walk long distances
This behaviour may indicate underlying discomfort in the feet or lower limbs. Identifying the cause early can help children stay active and maintain healthy physical development.
When Should You Bring Your Child to See a Podiatrist?
You may consider consulting a podiatrist if your child experiences:
- Foot pain lasting more than a few days
- Difficulty walking or running normally
- Persistent heel pain during sports
- Frequent tripping or balance issues
- Recurring ingrown toenails or infections
- Foot problems that interfere with daily activities
Early assessment allows potential problems to be identified and managed before they worsen.
Supporting Your Child’s Foot Health
Children’s feet are always developing, and proper care is important for their overall mobility and well-being. Simple steps such as choosing well-fitting footwear, encouraging good foot hygiene, and addressing discomfort early can make a significant difference.
Regular monitoring of your child’s walking patterns, activity levels, and foot comfort can help parents detect potential issues early.
Concerned About Your Child’s Foot Health?
If your child is experiencing persistent foot pain, unusual walking patterns, or recurring nail problems, a professional assessment may help identify the underlying cause.
Our podiatry team at Physio & Sole Clinic provides comprehensive foot assessments and personalised treatment plans to support children’s foot health and development.
Early care can help children stay comfortable, active, and confident as they grow. Book an appointment today.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is it normal for children to have flat feet?
Many young children naturally have flat feet because the arches are still developing. However, if flat feet cause pain, fatigue, or difficulty walking, a podiatry assessment may be recommended.
- Can children develop heel pain?
Yes. One common cause is Sever’s disease, which occurs during growth spurts and is often associated with sports and physical activity.
- When should a child see a podiatrist?
Parents should consider seeing a podiatrist if their child experiences persistent foot pain, abnormal walking patterns, frequent tripping, or recurring nail problems.
