Children are active, resilient, and constantly growing, so it can be hard to tell when foot or leg pain is just part of normal development or a sign that something more is going on. Many parents hear the phrase “growing pains” and assume discomfort will simply pass. In reality, persistent foot pain, unusual walking patterns, or frequent sports injuries may point to a condition that requires the attention of a pediatric podiatrist.
At Sole Foot and Ankle in Valparaiso, Dr. Harpreet Minhas regularly sees children whose symptoms were initially brushed off as normal but were actually caused by treatable foot and ankle conditions. Knowing when to see a pediatric podiatrist can make a meaningful difference in your child’s comfort, mobility, and long-term foot health.
What Do People Mean by “Growing Pains”?
True growing pains typically:
- Occur in both legs
- Happen at night
- Do not cause limping
- Go away by morning
If your child has pain during activity, avoids sports, limps, or complains of foot-specific discomfort, it is likely not growing pains. These signs often suggest a biomechanical or overuse issue that a children’s foot doctor should evaluate.
Common Pediatric Foot Conditions Parents Should Not Ignore
Intoeing (Pigeon-Toed Walking)
Intoeing occurs when a child’s feet turn inward while walking or running. While mild cases can improve with growth, persistent intoeing may lead to:
- Frequent tripping or falling
- Leg fatigue
- Knee or ankle strain during sports
A pediatric podiatrist can determine whether the cause is coming from the feet, legs, or hips and whether treatment is needed to prevent future problems.
Flat Feet in Children
Flat feet are common in young children, but they should gradually form an arch as the child grows. Flat feet may need attention when they cause:
- Foot or heel pain
- Poor endurance during walking or sports
- An awkward gait
Custom orthotics prescribed by a pediatric podiatrist in Valparaiso can provide proper support without interfering with natural development.
Sever’s Disease (Heel Pain in Young Athletes)
Sever’s disease is one of the most common causes of heel pain in active children, especially those involved in soccer, basketball, or running. It occurs when repetitive stress irritates the growth plate in the heel.
Warning signs include:
- Heel pain during or after activity
- Limping after sports
- Tenderness at the back of the heel
Early treatment helps reduce pain and allows children to stay active without long-term issues.
When Should You See a Pediatric Podiatrist?
You should schedule an appointment with a children’s foot doctor if your child:
- Complains of foot, heel, or ankle pain that lasts more than a few days
- Limping or avoiding activity
- Has frequent ankle sprains or falls
- Wears down shoes unevenly
- Has pain that interferes with school or sports
Early evaluation often prevents minor concerns from turning into chronic problems.
How a Pediatric Podiatrist Helps Your Child
At Sole Foot and Ankle Valparaiso, pediatric care focuses on conservative, child-friendly solutions such as:
- Gait and posture evaluation
- Activity modifications
- Custom orthotics designed for growing feet
- Stretching and strengthening guidance
- Supportive footwear recommendations
Dr. Minhas takes a thoughtful approach that prioritizes comfort, function, and healthy development.
Why Parents in Valparaiso Trust Sole Foot and Ankle
As a trusted pediatric podiatrist in Valparaiso, Indiana, Dr. Minhas understands how active children are; and how important it is to keep them moving safely. From young athletes to toddlers just learning to walk, care is tailored to each child’s age, activity level, and growth stage.
Helping Your Child Stay Active and Pain-Free
Foot pain in children is never something parents should feel unsure about addressing. Whether it turns out to be a normal phase or a treatable condition, getting clarity brings peace of mind and protects your child’s mobility.
If your child is showing signs that don’t feel “normal,” the team at Sole Foot and Ankle is here to help.
Schedule an appointment with a pediatric podiatrist in Valparaiso today and take the first step toward healthy, pain-free feet for your child.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should my child see a pediatric podiatrist?
You should consider seeing a pediatric podiatrist if your child has ongoing foot, heel, or ankle pain, limps while walking or running, frequently trips or falls, or avoids physical activity due to discomfort. Pain that lasts more than a few days or keeps returning should always be evaluated by a children’s foot doctor.
Are flat feet normal in children?
Flat feet are common in infants and toddlers, but arches usually develop as children grow. If flat feet are causing pain, fatigue, or difficulty with sports, a pediatric podiatrist can determine whether treatment such as custom orthotics is needed.
What causes heel pain in active children?
One of the most common causes is Sever’s disease, an overuse condition that affects the growth plate in the heel. It often occurs in children who play sports involving running and jumping. A pediatric podiatrist can diagnose the condition and recommend treatment to reduce pain while keeping your child active.
Will my child outgrow intoeing?
Some children do outgrow intoeing naturally. If intoeing persists, causes frequent falls, or interferes with walking or sports, a children’s foot doctor can assess whether treatment or monitoring is needed to prevent future joint or muscle issues.
Do kids really need custom orthotics?
Not every child needs orthotics, but for some, custom support can reduce pain, improve balance, and prevent strain on growing muscles and joints. A pediatric podiatrist will only recommend orthotics if they are appropriate for your child’s specific needs.
Is foot pain in children ever “just growing pains”?
True growing pains usually occur at night and affect both legs without causing limping. Pain that happens during activity, affects one foot, or causes changes in how your child walks is often not growing pains and should be checked by a pediatric podiatrist.
How can a children’s foot doctor help my young athlete?
A children’s foot doctor evaluates how your child moves, runs, and bears weight. Treatment may include activity guidance, footwear advice, stretching routines, or custom orthotics to prevent injuries and keep young athletes performing safely.
Do I need a referral to see a pediatric podiatrist in Valparaiso?
In most cases, no referral is needed. Parents can schedule directly with Sole Foot and Ankle Valparaiso to have their child evaluated by a pediatric podiatrist.
