Foot pain in children

Overview

Foot pain in children is a common problem that can happen for many reasons, such as growing pains, injuries, or foot conditions. Most of the time it's not serious and gets better with simple care.

Yes, foot pain is very common in children, especially when they are active or going through growth spurts.

It can affect children of all ages, from toddlers to teenagers. Different ages may have different causes, like growing pains in young children or sports injuries in older ones.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Pain in one or both feet
• Limping or avoiding putting weight on the foot
• Swelling, redness, or warmth in the foot
• Trouble walking or running normally

Symptoms in children

• Complaining of foot pain, especially at night (growing pains)
• Walking on tiptoes or with a different step
• Not wanting to take part in sports or play
• Changes in how they walk after an injury

Symptoms in older adults

• This article focuses on children. Foot pain in older adults has different causes and needs separate medical advice.

Causes

Main causes

• Growing pains – often felt in the heels, arches, or calves during growth spurts, usually at night
• Injuries like sprains, strains, or stress fractures from sports or play
• Flat feet (fallen arches) which can cause aching after long periods of standing
• Sever's disease – inflammation of the growth plate in the heel, common in active children aged 8–14
• Foreign bodies like splinters or small objects stuck in the foot

Risk factors

• Playing high-impact sports like running, jumping, or gymnastics
• Wearing shoes that are too small, too worn, or not supportive
• Being overweight, which puts more pressure on the feet
• Having a family history of foot problems, like flat feet

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• The child cannot walk or put any weight on the foot at all
• There is an open wound or the foot looks misshapen after an injury
• The foot is hot, red, and the child has a fever

Book a routine appointment if:

• Pain that lasts more than a week despite rest and simple home care
• Limping that does not go away after a few days
• Your child keeps complaining about foot pain and it affects daily activities

Diagnosis

A doctor or nurse will ask about your child's symptoms, when they started, and if there was an injury. They will gently examine the foot, watch your child walk, and check for swelling or tenderness.

Tests that may be done

• X-rays may be done to look for fractures or bone problems
• Blood tests are rarely needed but may help if there are signs of infection or other conditions
• Ultrasound or MRI scans are not usually necessary unless the cause is unclear

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will likely ask your child to stand, walk, and move their foot. The exam is usually painless and quick. The doctor may take X-rays in a separate room.

Treatment

Most foot pain in children can be treated at home with simple measures. The goal is to reduce pain and help your child return to normal activities. Medical treatments are only needed if the pain does not improve.

Self-care at home

• Rest – let your child avoid activities that hurt for a few days
• Ice – wrap an ice pack in a cloth and apply to the sore area for 15–20 minutes, several times a day
• Elevation – keep the foot up on a pillow when resting
• Comfortable, supportive shoes – make sure shoes fit well and have good cushioning
• Gentle foot stretches if advised by a doctor or physiotherapist

Medical treatments

If self-care is not enough, a doctor may suggest pain relief medicines (always follow dosage guidelines for children), physical therapy (special exercises to strengthen the foot), or custom insoles (orthotics) to support the foot. These are prescribed based on the cause of the pain.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for foot pain in children. It may be considered for very severe injuries, certain birth defects, or if a foreign object cannot be removed safely. Your doctor will discuss this if necessary.

Living with this condition

Most children with mild foot pain can continue their usual activities as long as they are comfortable. Avoid activities that make the pain worse, and encourage rest breaks. Support your child by listening to their complaints and helping them manage discomfort.

Lifestyle tips

• Check shoe size every 3–6 months – children's feet grow quickly
• Encourage your child to warm up and stretch before sports
• Keep nails trimmed and feet clean to avoid infections
• Use proper sports shoes for specific activities (e.g., running shoes for running)

Diet and exercise

A healthy diet and regular exercise are important for overall growth and development. Strengthening exercises for the legs and feet, like toe curls and calf raises, may help prevent some foot pain. Keeping a healthy weight reduces stress on the feet.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Persistent foot pain can frustrate a child and make them feel left out from play or sports. Reassure your child that they are not alone and that most foot pain goes away. If they feel upset for a long time, talk to a doctor or school counsellor.

Prevention

Not all causes of foot pain can be prevented, but you can reduce the risk. Choose well-fitting, supportive shoes. Make sure your child warms up properly before sports. Keep play areas safe from sharp objects. Encourage breaks during long periods of activity.

Complications

If left untreated

• Chronic pain that lasts for months or years
• Changes in the way your child walks, which can cause problems in the knees, hips, or back
• Growth plate injuries that may affect foot shape if not treated
• In rare cases, infection can spread if an open wound is ignored

Long-term outlook

The outlook for children with foot pain is very good. Most cases resolve with simple home care or basic medical treatment. Even conditions like flat feet or Sever's disease often get better as the child grows. With proper care, children can return to all their normal activities.

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