Children’s Podiatry (Paediatric)

At Cockburn Podiatry, our experienced podiatrists in Cockburn Central have a particular interest in the foot and lower limb health of children. Children’s feet are not simply small adult feet — they are developing, growing structures that require a different approach to assessment and treatment. Early intervention can prevent many adult foot problems from developing.

We create a welcoming, child-friendly environment. Our podiatrists are patient, calm, and skilled at putting children at ease during what can sometimes be an unfamiliar and anxious appointment.

Common Conditions We Treat in Children

Sever’s Disease (Growing Heel Pain)

Sever’s disease is the most common cause of heel pain in children aged 8–14 years. It occurs when the calf muscle and Achilles tendon pull excessively on the heel bone’s growth plate during a growth spurt. It is common in active children who play football, netball, basketball, and running sports.

Symptoms: Heel pain during or after physical activity, pain first thing in the morning, limping during sport, and tenderness when squeezing the sides of the heel.

Treatment: Load management, calf stretching and strengthening, heel raises inside footwear, strapping, and in some cases custom orthotics. Most children recover fully within 2–4 months.

Flat Feet (Paediatric Pes Planus)

Flat feet (where the arch appears absent when standing) are very common in young children and usually develop naturally by age 6–7. However, some children have flat feet that are causing pain, are associated with poor balance or coordination, are still pronounced at age 7 or beyond, or are accompanied by abnormal gait patterns.

Our podiatrists assess whether your child’s flat feet are functional (flexible and asymptomatic — often no treatment needed) or pathological (causing symptoms or biomechanical problems — may benefit from orthotics, exercises, or footwear advice).

In-Toeing (Pigeon Toes) & Out-Toeing

In-toeing is when the feet point inward while walking or running. It is extremely common in toddlers and young children and usually resolves naturally. However, if in-toeing persists beyond age 7–8, is causing frequent trips and falls, is asymmetric (one foot affected more than the other), or is accompanied by pain, assessment is warranted.

Our podiatrists determine the origin of the in-toeing — it may arise from the foot, the shin (tibial torsion), or the hip (femoral anteversion) — and recommend the appropriate treatment. Treatment options range from targeted exercises to orthotics depending on age and severity.

Growing Pains

True growing pains typically cause aching in the legs and feet in children aged 3–12, usually in the evenings and at night. While often benign, pain that is present during the day, causes limping, is in the joints, or is associated with swelling and redness should always be assessed to rule out other conditions.

Ingrown Toenails in Children

Ingrown toenails are common in children and teenagers. Our podiatrists treat them gently and effectively. For severe or recurrent cases, we perform partial nail avulsion under local anaesthetic . Learn more about ingrown toenail treatment →

Plantar Warts (Verruca)

Warts are extremely common in school-aged children and teenagers. They are caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and spread easily in shared barefoot environments like swimming pools and changing rooms. We treat warts in children using several methods. Learn more about wart treatment →

Toe Walking

Some children habitually walk on their toes beyond the age of 3–4 years. Persistent toe walking warrants assessment as it can cause tight calf muscles, balance problems, and gait abnormalities. Our podiatrists assess for any underlying causes and develop a management plan including stretching programs and, where appropriate, orthotics or referral.

Hypermobility

Children with joint hypermobility (“double-jointed”) often experience foot and ankle pain, fatigue after activity, and recurrent ankle sprains due to the reduced stability of their joints. Custom orthotics and targeted strengthening exercises can significantly improve function and reduce pain.

What to Bring to Your Child’s Appointment

• All shoes your child wears regularly (school shoes, sports shoes, home sandals)
• Any previous imaging (X-rays, scans)
• A brief description of your concerns — when symptoms started, what makes them worse
• Your health fund card for on-the-spot claiming

Frequently Asked Questions

What age can children see a podiatrist?

Children can be seen from the time they start walking. Early assessment for walking pattern concerns is always worthwhile.

Do flat feet always need treatment?

No. A flat arch is normal in young children and typically develops naturally by age 6. Assessment is recommended if flat feet are causing pain, persist beyond age 6–7, or are accompanied by excessive in-toeing or balance problems.

My child has heel pain after football. What is it?

Heel pain in active children aged 8–14 is most commonly Sever’s disease — inflammation of the heel bone’s growth plate. It responds well to treatment and resolves fully when the growth plate matures, usually by age 14–15.

Book your child’s podiatry assessment today. Call (08) 9417 3737 or book online.

Cockburn Podiatry in Cockburn Central serves families from South Lake, Yangebup, Atwell, Success, Aubin Grove, Hammond Park, Jandakot and surrounds.

Related services: Custom Orthotics  |  Sports Podiatry  |  Ingrown Toenail Treatment