According to a study led by Australian researchers, certain exercises can put pressure on the developing feet of overweight children. Due to their tendency to have fatter and flatter feet, overweight children are at risk for increased pressure on the arch—leading to foot pain and discomfort. This could ultimately cause kids to avoid participating in physical activity, which is crucial to health and well-being. Other forms of activity, such as swimming or cycling, may be a necessary alternative for overweight children uncomfortable with exercising. In a previous study, Diane L. Riddiford-Harland of the University of Wollongong and her coauthors found that overweight kids had higher “plantar pressures” while walking than normal-weight kids. The study also linked the higher pressures and flattening of the arches to a possibility that the kids would be less physically active.
Keeping your children’s feet healthy during their youth is essential in maintaining their overall health during adulthood. To learn more, speak to one of our podiatrists from The Foot and Ankle Associates of North Carolina, PLLC. Our doctors will provide you with quality podiatric care.
How to Keep Your Child’s Feet Healthy
Throughout childhood, it is very crucial for children to have and maintain good health and proper care of their feet. With good foot health starting at an early age, foot problems and diseases can be prevented in the future. As children continue to develop so do their feet, and require different techniques of care and maintenance.
Even though babies do not begin walking until later stages, their feet should be taken care of properly:
- Stay away from socks that are too tight for your baby’s feet. This can cause pain and allow less circulation
- Encourage your baby to move their feet as much as possible so they feel comfortable with them
When your baby begins to learn how to walk, do not panic if they are unsteady on their feet. Toddlers are just getting used to the way in which their feet work so wobbliness is completely acceptable.
When your child grows out of their toddler years, here are a few steps they should take to stay with good health within their feet:
- Practice proper hygiene with them
- Be observant of any injuries that might occur
For more information about Keeping Children’s Feet Healthy, follow the link below.
If you have any questions, please contact one of our offices located in Raleigh, Rocky Mount, and Ahoskie, NC. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.