Infant and Children's Foot Assessments
Is early assessment the foundation for healthy feet?
Our specialised clinics in Ringwood, Frankston, and Caulfield North offer comprehensive Infant and Children’s Foot Assessments. We understand that early detection and intervention are crucial for proper foot development. Our expert podiatrists use gentle, child-friendly techniques to evaluate your little one’s foot structure, gait, and overall lower limb function.
Early Steps Towards Lifelong Foot Health
Understanding the foundation of foot health begins in the earliest steps of our lives. Infant and Children’s Foot Assessments are crucial in identifying and addressing potential foot and ankle issues that could impact a child’s ability to walk, play, and engage in daily activities comfortably.
At The Heel Centre, we emphasise the importance of these assessments as a proactive measure to ensure your child’s feet grow and develop correctly, preventing future problems and enabling them to lead an active, happy life.
What is Infant and Children's Foot Assessment?
Foot health is foundational to a child’s overall well-being and ability to engage actively in life’s many adventures. Infant and Children’s Foot Assessments at The Heel Centre are specialized evaluations aimed at the early detection and treatment of foot and lower limb conditions that can affect children from infancy through their growing years.
How does Infant and Children's Foot Assessment work?
Our comprehensive process for Infant and Children’s Foot Assessments is designed to identify any current issues, prevent future problems, and support your child’s ability to walk, run, and play comfortably.
Thorough Examination
Initial evaluation of foot structure, alignment, and look for any apparent abnormalities or developmental milestones.
Gait Analysis
Observation of walking patterns to detect any irregularities in the biomechanics of your child’s gait.
Flexibility and Mobility Tests
Assessments of the flexibility and range of motion in the feet and ankles to ensure they are developing properly.
Growth Monitoring
Regular assessments to monitor growth patterns and ensure that the feet and lower limbs are developing normally over time.
Parental Guidance
Providing parents with advice on proper footwear, activities that support healthy foot development, and when necessary, interventions to address any identified issues.
Personalized Treatment Planning
Based on the analysis, a tailored treatment plan is developed, which may include exercises or other interventions.
Heel Conditions identified by Infant and Children's Foot Assessments
In-Toeing & Out-Toeing
Sever’s Disease
Toe Walking
Frequently walking on toes rather than the full foot, which can sometimes indicate underlying conditions.
What are the benefits of Infant and Children's Foot Assessments?
- Diagnosis of Congenital Foot Issues: Early detection of foot anomalies can lead to timely and effective management.
- Tracking Developmental Milestones: Ensuring that foot and ankle development aligns with age-related milestones can prevent future problems.
- Identification of Flat Feet: Early identification allows for intervention that may help in promoting normal arch development.
- Spotting Gait Abnormalities: Addressing walking pattern irregularities early can correct issues before they become ingrained.
- Prevention of Future Foot Problems: By catching and treating conditions early, long-term complications can be minimised.
- Customised Care Plans: Based on assessment results, tailored interventions can support optimal foot health and function.
Ready To Support Your Child’s Steps?
Don’t wait for the first step to discover the path to optimal foot health for your child. Reach out to The Heel Centre, where caring for little feet is a big part of what we do. Whether it’s a routine check-up or addressing specific concerns, our dedicated team is ready to provide personalised care tailored to your child’s needs. Book an appointment today and take the first step towards a lifetime of healthy walking for your child.
Frequently Asked Questions about Infant and Children's Foot Assessments
What age should my child have their first foot assessment?
How can I tell if my child has a foot problem?
Are flat feet in children a cause for concern?
While common and often painless, flat feet should be assessed to ensure they do not lead to further issues.