Please be advised that our office will remain open despite concern for COVID-19. We are taking precautions to protect our staff and patients, and ask that you notify us if you are not feeling well prior to coming to your appointment. There are some cases where we may advise you to keep your appointment despite feeling unwell. We will update this message if there are any changes.

Eureka Office - 3258 Timber Fall Court, Eureka, CA 95503, (707) 441-1112 (Main Office)

Arcata Office - 3798 Janes Rd. Suite 6, Arcata, CA 95521, 707-441-1112 (Satellite office used by Dr. Miller on Friday's only. Please contact the Eureka office for all inquiries.)

Wound Care Clinic - 3800 Janes Rd., Arcata, CA 95521 707-825-4930 (Dr. Alway and Dr. Miller practice at the Wound Care Clinic on Thursdays' and Fridays')

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707-441-1112

Children's Feet

Our team of specialists and staff believe that informed patients are better equipped to make decisions regarding their health and well being. For your personal use, we have created an extensive patient library covering an array of educational topics. Browse through these diagnoses and treatments to learn more about topics of interest to you. Or, for a more comprehensive search of our entire Web site, enter your term(s) in the search bar provided.

As always, you can contact our office to answer any questions or concerns.

Children with strong, healthy feet avoid many kinds of lower extremity problems later in life. That's why it is important to inspect your children's feet periodically.

Infants

The size and shape of your baby's feet change quickly during their first year. Because a baby's feet are flexible, too much pressure or strain can affect the shape of their feet. It's important to allow baby to kick and stretch their feet freely. Also, make sure shoes and socks do not squeeze the toes.

Toddlers

Do not to force a toddler to walk before s/he is ready. Once walking begins, watch the toddler's gait. Many toddlers have a pigeon-toe gait, which is normal. Some initially learn to walk landing on their toes instead of their heels. Most children outgrow both these problems. But other conditions detected early can be treated more easily.

When Foot Care Is Needed

To help with flatfeet, special shoes or orthotics may be prescribed. To correct mild in-toeing or out-toeing, your toddler may need to sit in a different position while playing or watching TV. If your child's feet turn in or out a lot, corrective shoes, splints, or night braces may be prescribed.

The foot's bone structure is well-formed by the time your child reaches age 7 or 8, but if a growth plate (the area where bone growth begins) is injured, the damaged plate may cause the bone to grow oddly. With a doctor's care, however, the risk of future bone problems is reduced.

Remember to check your child's shoe size often. Make sure there is space between the toes and the end of the shoe and that the shoes are roomy enough to allow the toes to move freely. Don't let your child wear hand-me-down shoes.