Foot and leg problems in children are often related to growth and development, but some conditions may require attention to prevent long-term issues. Common concerns include in-toeing, out-toeing, and flat foot. These conditions affect how a child walks and stands, and they can influence balance and coordination. In-toeing occurs when the feet turn inward when walking. It is often caused by metatarsus adductus, a condition in which the front part of the foot curves inward. Out-toeing involves the feet turning outward and is frequently linked to external tibial torsion, where the shin bone rotates outward.

Symptoms of in-toeing may include a noticeable inward foot position, frequent tripping, and uneven shoe wear. Children with metatarsus adductus may have a curved forefoot that is visible even when at rest. Out-toeing symptoms include an outward foot position, difficulty running efficiently, and a wider walking stance. External tibial torsion may become more noticeable as a child grows and becomes more active. Flat foot is another common condition in children, characterized by a low or absent arch when standing. Symptoms of flat foot can include foot fatigue, discomfort after activity, and inward rolling of the ankles.

Several risk factors contribute to these pediatric foot conditions. Genetics play a significant role, as children may inherit structural traits that affect foot alignment. External tibial torsion may develop as bones grow and rotate. Flat foot is often seen in younger children due to undeveloped arches, but it may persist in some cases. Obesity, improper footwear, and lack of supportive shoes can increase stress on developing feet and worsen symptoms.

Early recognition and proper care are essential for supporting healthy foot development in children. Supportive footwear and, in some cases, custom orthotics may help improve alignment and comfort. If your child has foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Charles Allen, DPM of Chicago Foot & Ankle, PC. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cuboid syndrome can cause pain along the outside of the foot, near the little toe. The cuboid is a small bone in the middle of the foot that helps support movement and stability. Cuboid syndrome develops when this bone shifts partly out of its normal position. Pain can begin after a sudden injury or repeated stress on the foot. Symptoms include aching or sharp pain, difficulty walking, and swelling. Some patients also have reduced foot or ankle movement. Pain can become stronger when putting weight on the foot or pushing off the toes.

Overuse and ankle sprains are leading causes of cuboid syndrome. Running and other intense activities can place repeated stress on the joints of the foot. An inward-twisting ankle sprain can also disturb the position of the cuboid. People whose feet turn inward while walking can face a higher risk. Tight calf muscles can add stress to the cuboid area. Other risk factors include high-impact sports, uneven training surfaces, and wearing shoes that lack proper support. Because cuboid syndrome can resemble a stress fracture or other foot problem, an accurate evaluation is important.

A podiatrist can examine the foot, review how the pain started, and assess foot movement. The evaluation can also identify an ankle injury or abnormal foot mechanics that could be contributing to symptoms. Treatment can include manipulation to restore the cuboid's position, supportive taping, or padding to stabilize the middle of the foot. Orthotics can provide added support and improve foot alignment. A podiatrist can also recommend changes to activities and shoes to reduce repeated strain. Recovery depends on the severity and cause of the problem. If you have symptoms of cuboid syndrome, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Charles Allen, DPM from Chicago Foot & Ankle, PC. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus is an infection that develops when fungi grow in or under the nail. The infection usually begins slowly and can affect one or more toenails. Early signs include white, yellow, or brown discoloration. As the infection progresses, the nail can become thicker, brittle, crumbly, or misshapen. Some people also notice the nail separating from the skin underneath, along with discomfort or an unpleasant odor. Toenail fungus often starts after athlete's foot spreads to the nail, and fungi thrive in warm, moist environments. Wearing shoes for long periods without good air flow and repeated nail injuries can also increase the risk of infection.

A podiatrist carefully examines the affected nail and surrounding skin to confirm the cause of the problem because several nail conditions can look similar. In some cases, testing a small nail sample helps identify the type of infection before treatment begins. Treatment includes trimming thickened nails, removing damaged nail material when appropriate, and recommending the most effective treatment plan. A podiatrist also evaluates foot structure and nail health to reduce pressure that can worsen discomfort. Regular follow-up visits help monitor nail growth and track progress as healthier nail tissue gradually replaces the damaged nail. Addressing the infection early can also help protect nearby nails and improve overall foot health.

Ignoring toenail fungus can allow the infection to spread to additional nails and increase damage to the affected nail. In severe cases, the nail can become deformed or even destroyed. People with diabetes or weakened immune systems should seek prompt podiatry care because complications can develop more easily. Early evaluation helps confirm the diagnosis, guide appropriate treatment, and improve the chances of healthy nail growth. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Charles Allen, DPM of Chicago Foot & Ankle, PC. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Blisters develop when repeated friction causes the upper layers of skin to separate, allowing clear fluid to collect between them. This fluid forms a protective cushion over the damaged tissue while the skin begins to heal. Blisters on the feet usually result from rubbing caused by shoes that do not fit properly, repeated walking and running, or increased physical activity. Heat, moisture, and sweaty feet can also increase friction and make blisters more likely to form. Although a blister may seem minor, it can become very painful and interfere with normal movement. Early evaluation is important when a blister becomes severe, repeatedly returns, or shows signs of infection because prompt care helps prevent further complications.

Symptoms include a raised pocket of fluid, redness, and pain while walking or standing. Some blisters remain small, while others grow larger and make everyday activities uncomfortable. The skin surrounding the blister can become irritated or swollen, especially when friction continues. If a blister breaks open, bacteria can enter the damaged skin and increase the risk of infection. Warning signs include increasing pain, warmth, or pus. A careful examination helps determine whether the blister is healing properly or whether another foot condition is contributing to the problem. 

Podiatrists evaluate the blister, the surrounding skin, and the way your feet function to identify the cause of repeated irritation. Treatment focuses on protecting the damaged skin, reducing pressure on the affected area, and helping the foot heal safely. A podiatrist can also recommend shoes that provide proper support and fit correctly to reduce unnecessary rubbing. Professional care is especially important when blisters are frequent, severe, or slow to heal. Early treatment helps improve comfort, supports healthier skin, and lowers the risk of infection or ongoing foot pain. If you frequently develop blisters, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment and prevention tips.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Charles Allen, DPM of Chicago Foot & Ankle, PC. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.