5 Common Causes of Persistent Heel Pain
Heel pain that keeps coming back can change the way you walk and limit the activities you enjoy. Here’s a look at five common causes of persistent heel pain and when it’s time to get help.
7 Warning Signs Your Child May Need Pediatric Foot Care
As parents, we watch our children hit every milestone, from their very first steps to their active school days. However, it's easy to overlook the subtle signs that their growing feet need professional attention. At Tjoe Podiatry in Jersey City, New Jersey, Dr. Edward Tjoe, DPM, provides specialized pediatric foot care to keep your child moving comfortably.
Many parents assume that foot complaints are just normal growing pains, but structural issues can impact your child's long-term mobility. In fact, a report from the C.S. Mott Children's Hospital National Poll on Children's Health (2024) revealed that fifteen percent of parents have concerns about their child's foot health or walking patterns. Recognizing the warning signs early allows us to intervene before minor issues become chronic problems.
Common childhood foot conditions
Children's feet are constantly developing, making them vulnerable to structural changes and infections. A study published in MDPI Bioengineering (2025) found that 83 percent of school-aged children exhibited at least one foot pathology, with ingrown toenails and plantar warts being highly common. Keeping a close eye on your child's feet and behavior can help you spot these issues early.
Seven warning signs to watch for
If you notice any of these seven warning signs, your child may benefit from a professional evaluation. Paying attention to how they walk and play can help you catch issues early.
- Frequent tripping or clumsiness: If your child trips often, it's not always simple awkwardness. Structural issues like in-toeing or flat feet can affect their balance and gait.
- Complaints of pain: Children don't typically experience ongoing foot or ankle pain. If they complain of aching heels or arches, it's time to have them evaluated.
- Changes in physical activity: If your child suddenly loses interest in sports or active play, they might be hiding discomfort. Foot fatigue can make running and jumping painful.
- Tiptoe walking: Walking on the toes occasionally is normal for toddlers, but persistent tiptoeing can indicate tight Achilles tendons or other developmental issues.
- Uneven shoe wear: Take a look at the soles of your child's shoes. If one side is significantly more worn down than the other, it suggests an uneven distribution of weight.
- Visible skin or nail changes: Keep an eye out for peeling skin, growths, or redness around the toenails. Conditions like plantar warts require prompt treatment to prevent infection.
- Flat feet past toddlerhood: While toddlers naturally have flat feet, the arches should begin to develop as they grow. Persistent flat feet can lead to alignment issues in the knees and hips.
How we support your child's foot health
We offer a warm, patient-focused environment where your child can feel safe and comfortable. Dr. Tjoe provides comprehensive evaluations and custom orthotics to support proper joint alignment and bone growth. Whether your child is dealing with painful plantar warts or structural alignment concerns, we design personalized treatment plans that fit their active lifestyle.
Healthy feet are the foundation of an active, happy childhood. If you notice any of these warning signs, don't wait for the problem to worsen. Please schedule an appointment with our team today to protect your child's growing feet.
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