Common foot conditions seen by Podiatrists in kids returning back to sports

Kids are back at school for the year, and for some, that means a big increase in their activity levels after the holidays. Different sports require the foot and ankle to move and respond in different ways. Whether it's soccer, basketball, gymnastics, running, or anything in between, an increase or change in activity levels can put strain on growing feet, sometimes leading to foot and leg pain.

Children's gait analysis

 The human foot doesn’t fully develop until around the age of 18 to 23 years. Before then, bones continue to fuse, the arch is forming, and the foot is growing in length and width. These rapid changes can increase the likelihood of foot pain or injuries.

 

Here are some of the most frequently seen foot and ankle issues in young athletes and what you can look out for!

 

1. Calcaneal Apophysitis (Sever’s Disease)

Sever’s disease is one of the most common causes of heel pain in children, especially those going through a growth spurt. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress and tension from the Achilles tendon.

Symptoms:

  • Heel pain after sports

  • Tenderness at the back of the heel

  • Limping or difficulty walking after activity

 

2. Tibialis Posterior Tendonitis

This condition affects the tibialis posterior tendon, which supports the arch of the foot. Overuse or improper footwear can cause inflammation, leading to pain and difficulty with movement.

Symptoms:

  • Pain along the inside of the foot and ankle

  • Swelling around the inside of the ankle

  • Increased discomfort with high-impact activities like jumping and side-to-side movements

 

3. Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis is common in children who participate in sports that involve a lot of running and jumping. It results from overusing the Achilles tendon beyond its capacity.

Symptoms:

  • Pain and stiffness along the Achilles tendon, especially in the morning or after activity

  • Pain that may improve once warmed up

  • Tenderness when pressing on the tendon

  • Swelling or warmth in the area

 

4. Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments in the ankle are overstretched or torn, often due to twisting motions during sports.

Symptoms:

  • Swelling and bruising around the ankle

  • Pain with movement or weight-bearing

  • Instability in the joint

 

5. Growing Pains

While growing pains are generally harmless, they can cause discomfort, disrupt sleep and can be distressing for both children and parents. 

Symptoms:

  • Usually affect the legs, particularly in the calves, thighs, and behind the knees 

  • Often felt in the evening or at night. 

 

Other Concerns:

  • Ingrown Toenails: Occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and possible infection.

  • Plantar Warts: Small, rough growths on the soles of the feet caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can be painful, especially when walking.

  • Blisters: Fluid-filled pockets that develop due to friction, pressure, or moisture, commonly from ill-fitting shoes or excessive activity.

 

General Prevention & Treatment:

  • Properly fitted and supportive footwear

  • Icing the painful area after activities

  • Heat packs for muscle aches

  • Warming up before activity and Stretching after. 

  • Temporary activity modification if pain persists

 

How Can a Podiatrist Help?

If your child experiences persistent pain, consulting a podiatrist can ensure a proper assessment and treatment plan, helping them recover quickly and return to the activities they love.

 

Podiatrists specialise in managing foot and lower limb pain by introducing targeted exercises and if relevant, appropriate stretches, combined with therapeutic mobilisation and massage. They can also recommend appropriate footwear, offloading padding, taping, and, if needed, custom orthotics for added support. For musculoskeletal concerns, we recommend booking in for an Initial Musculoskeletal appointment.

 

Additionally, podiatrists can use clinical tools to safely remove ingrown toenails and plantar warts while providing guidance on prevention to reduce the risk of recurrence. For any nail and skin concerns we recommend booking in for an initial general podiatry appointment.

 

Neda Piri