Baby Foot Problems
A baby's foot is an interlacing of 26 partially developed bones, contains more cartilage than bone, has over 100 muscles, and is a network of ligaments and blood vessels all working together to provide a solid foundation. The problem is, an infant's foot is so pliable and delicate that it is susceptible to deformity, injury, unnecessary pain, profuse sweat, in- or out-pointing digits and excessive odors. Knowing what can go wrong is the first step in prevention and/or early detection. Many adult issues with pain and discomfort in could have been prevented with some extra foot care at the beginning, so arming yourself with a little knowledge now can give your child the best foundation possible, literally.
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An Extra Digit or Two
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About 1 in every 750 babies is born with an extra toe or two, a condition called polydactyly. It is usually genetic and not indicative of some larger problem. Even though it can be unsettling to see anything out of the ordinary on your newborn, it does not impede her development in any way nor does it affect her balance. Surgery at age 1 removes the extra toe, mainly so that shoes fit.
Pressure, Developement & Deformity
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It is frighteningly easy for your baby's foot to become deformed due to its pliability. Although this flexibility is necessary for the rapid growth that takes place, and it prevent aches and pains, be mindful of how easily an infant's foot can develop improperly. His foot is extremely sensitive to pressure, and a too-tight or ill-fitting shoe can actually deform his foot. Too much pressure on the foot alters the development and growth of the foot, causes painful blisters and impedes walking and balance.
Make sure that your baby or toddler is in loose shoes with a good 1/4 to 1/2 inch lead space and that no pressure is exerted on her foot. Your baby does not need shoes until she is walking; shoes are not only unnecessary but can impede the natural development of the foot.
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Club Foot
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Club foot is the disorder that comes to mind for most parents concerned about possible foot issues for their baby. It is a rare disorder, occurring in about 1 in every 1,000 births. Early detection is the key; club foot can actually be diagnosed via ultrasound. Club foot is highly treatable. Surgery can correct your baby's foot, or castings can encourage proper growth; even physical therapy shows promise. There is no reason for your child to suffer walking or balance issues as long as his club foot is addressed early on.
Flat Foot
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A baby can be born with flat feet or "fallen arches" due to the loose cartilage and ligaments in the foot that allow for its rapid growth. Many children with flat feet develop healthy arches by the age of 2 or 3. As long as your child does not complain of pain, you need not interfere. If the issue persists, she can wear inserts in her shoe or shoes with extra support. Even these treatments are controversial because they don't encourage the arch; they only make her foot more comfortable. Surgery is absolutely not necessary and would be purely cosmetic.
Intoeing
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Intoeing is exactly what it sounds like: the baby's foot turns markedly inward. Most commonly a twisted thigh bone, shin or a curved foot causes this issue. The good news is that most children grew out of these issues in as little as six to nine months. Sometimes it takes up to eight years for a twisted thigh or shin to straighten out, but braces, surgery or casts do little; the body usually works itself out. The main side effect to intoeing is that he is much more likely to trip. Severe cases may need medical attention, but with patience and time, your baby's body will likely adjust.
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- Photo Credit J.D. Kulinski
