Pediatric Foot Deformity Specialist in Illinois
Concerned about your child’s foot deformity? Visit Suburban Orthopaedics, where our specialized pediatric orthopedic team is committed to diagnosing and treating foot conditions to support healthy growth and mobility.
Board-Certified Foot Care for Children in Bartlett, Elgin, Schaumburg, and Chicago, IL
Pediatric foot deformities include a wide range of conditions that can affect the bones, muscles, and tendons of children’s feet. Because your feet support the rest of your body, these deformities can affect your child’s balance and the alignment of the rest of their body. This can lead to more issues in other body parts, including the back, knees, and hips.
Why Should My Child See a Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon?
While children may suffer from some of the same orthopedic conditions as adults, they often require different treatment approaches. Pediatric orthopedists are familiar with the additional challenges that come with children’s still-growing bodies. With years of experience, our providers can suggest various surgical and non-surgical treatments built to consider their growth plates and other developmental differences.
When Should I See a Doctor for a Child’s Foot Deformity?
Many pediatric foot conditions can benefit from orthopedic treatment. Some may be present from birth, while others may develop over time. Even though foot deformities can be concerning, they are more common than you think, and most are easily treated. Common foot deformities in children include
- Cavus Foot: A condition where children develop excessively high arches, usually presenting by age 10
- Clubfoot: One of the most well-known birth defects, which causes the feet to curve inward and can affect walking ability
- Juvenile Bunion: This happens when the first metatarsal and the big toe slide out of alignment, creating a bump that can make wearing shoes uncomfortable
- Tarsal coalition: A rigid flatfoot causes by two or more tarsal bones fusing together
- Polydactyly: A condition where children are born with extra toes
- Pediatric Hammertoe: a condition where a toe bends up in the middle and down at the tip
This is only a selection of conditions that can cause foot deformities in children. Your doctor will perform a total assessment before determining a diagnosis and creating a treatment plan.
How are Pediatric Foot Deformities Treated?
Treatment for your child’s foot deformity will vary based on the condition. Some deformities can be treated with conservative methods such as serial casting, bracing, custom orthotics, and physical therapy. While these treatments work well, most of them do not produce quick results. For example, serial casting of a clubfoot should begin shortly after birth and may continue for months. Early detection and diagnosis can mean the difference between conservative treatments and surgery.
At Suburban Orthopaedics, our team will exhaust conservative options before turning to surgery. However, if surgery is required, you can trust our expert surgeons to guide you through every step of your child’s pre- and post-surgery treatment. Common surgical interventions include tendon transfers, joint fusion, bone realignment, and soft tissue release.
Best Pediatric Foot Specialists Near Me
If you notice a deformity in your child’s foot, it needs to be seen by a specialist as soon as possible. If left untreated, these conditions can worsen over time. Our Suburban Orthopaedic specialists are available at offices in Bartlett, Elgin, Schaumburg, and Downtown Chicago with extended office hours. Schedule an appointment now, or we offer same-day services at our Bartlett, Elgin, and Schaumburg, IL locations.
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