Pediatric Orthopedic Challenges: When to Bring in a Podiatric Physician

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Why Pediatric Foot and Ankle Care Matters

As a foot and ankle surgeon who has treated thousands of children, I’ve seen how healthy feet and ankles lay the foundation for a lifetime of movement. Yet pediatric orthopedic problems are far more common than many parents realize.

National data shows:

These numbers are more than statistics—they’re reminders that early detection and specialized care can prevent lifelong mobility issues.

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Common Pediatric Foot and Ankle Problems

Children grow quickly, stay active, and participate in multiple sports—sometimes year-round. That combination, plus rapid skeletal changes, leads to conditions such as:

• Flat feet or high arches that persist past early childhood
• Fractures and sprains from sports, playground accidents, or falls
• In-toeing or out-toeing (abnormal walking patterns)
• Chronic foot, ankle, or heel pain
• Clubfoot or leg-length differences

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When to See a Podiatric Physician for Your Child

Parents should schedule an evaluation if they notice:

1. Persistent pain:
   Recurrent discomfort after walking, sports, or at rest.
2. Gait abnormalities:
   Toe walking, frequent tripping, or limping.
3. Structural concerns:
   Painful flat feet beyond age 5–6, or unusually high arches.
4. Recurrent injuries:
   Multiple sprains or slow recovery from minor injuries.
5. Congenital/developmental issues:
   Clubfoot, leg-length differences, or other conditions.

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How Upperline Health’s Pediatric Podiatric Physicians Can Help

1. Gait and alignment assessment:
   Detecting biomechanical imbalances before symptoms appear.
2. Custom orthotics & footwear guidance:
   Improving alignment and relieving pressure.
3. Pediatric physical therapy plans:
   Targeted exercises for strength, balance, and flexibility.
4. Treatment of foot deformities:
   From bracing/casting to surgery when necessary.
5. Expert injury management:
   Diagnosing sprains vs. fractures and guiding safe recovery.

Tip: Have kids do them barefoot when safe to enhance muscle engagement.

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Do Children Need Orthotics?

A biomechanical exam ensures the right device at the right time.

What Parents Can Do Today

• Observe your child’s gait and activity tolerance.
• Take note of recurring complaints about foot, ankle, or leg pain.
• Schedule a baseline pediatric foot exam around ages 4–5.
• Address structural concerns early to avoid secondary problems.

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Bottom Line

Healthy feet keep kids active, confident, and pain-free. Early intervention—whether through a simple exercise plan, supportive orthotics, or professional guidance—can make all the difference in a child’s mobility and well-being.

If you’re concerned about your child’s foot health, schedule a pediatric evaluation at your nearest Upperline Health clinic. Peace of mind is just one visit away.

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About the Author

Dr. Patrick DeHeer is a board-certified podiatrist and pediatric specialist who specializes in treating the most complex of foot and ankle ailments.

After earning his doctor of podiatric medicine degree from the Dr. William M. Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine in Chicago, Dr. DeHeer went through his residency in podiatric surgery at Winona Memorial Hospital in Indianapolis. He then completed a fellowship in foot and ankle arthroscopy under one of the most innovative and well-known podiatrists in Indianapolis, Richard O. Lundeen, DPM.

Dr. DeHeer is double board certified through the American Board of Podiatric Surgery, specializing in foot surgery, as well as reconstructive rearfoot and ankle surgery. He holds professional memberships with the American Podiatric Medical Association, the American College of Foot and Ankle Pediatrics, and the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, to name a few.

Dr. DeHeer is available for appointments at the following locations:

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