Welcoming a newborn into your life is a joyous occasion filled with anticipation and love. You may not immediately think about their feet as you cradle your precious gift. However, these tiny tootsies deserve some attention, too!

Babies are prone to getting feet issues when they are born, and even though we don’t give the feet enough attention when we hold our baby, it is one of the important things to check as soon as you get your kid in your arms. By checking for foot issues in the beginning, you might help them to avoid foot and ankle trauma in Tarzana in the long run.

Here are some issues to check in your baby’s feet.

1. Flat Feet

Tiny feet are incredibly flexible, and it’s normal for babies to appear flat-footed. Their arches are still in development, and it can take a few years for them to form fully. However, if you’re still concerned about flat feet, consult your pediatrician for pediatric foot deformities in Tarzana. Usually, there is nothing to worry about, but a good pediatrician can guide you on exercises and monitoring your child’s foot development.

2. In-toeing and Out-toeing

You might notice that your baby’s feet turn in or out when they walk. This is common as their leg muscles and bones are still growing and adjusting. In most cases, these issues correct themselves as your child grows. However, if the issue persists, talk to your doctor about it.

3. Curly Toes

Curly toes, also known as overlapping toes, can sometimes be observed in newborns. This typically occurs when the baby’s toes cross over each other. While it might look uncomfortable, it’s usually not painful and often resolves as your baby’s foot muscles strengthen.

4. Toeing in or Out

In some cases, babies might appear to have one foot or both feet turned in or out. This can be due to positioning in the womb or the baby’s natural foot structure. Gentle stretching exercises, recommended by a pediatrician or physical therapist, can help correct this condition. Find a reliable doctor who can deal with minor issues like flat feet to bigger issues like foot ulcer treatment in Tarzana.

5. Webbed Toes

Webbed toes occur when the skin is partially fused between two or more toes. This condition is not dangerous and doesn’t really affect your baby, but monitoring it’s a good idea. Surgery might be done in serious cases, but this is usually when the child is older.

6. Extra Toes

Polydactyly, the presence of extra toes, is another congenital foot condition. While it may seem unusual, it’s not an uncommon issue. Many individuals lead perfectly healthy lives with extra toes, and surgical removal is usually a personal choice rather than a medical necessity.

7. Clubfoot

Clubfoot is a more serious foot issue that requires immediate action. It’s characterized by a foot that turns inward and downward. Luckily, this issue can be treated successfully with gentle stretching and casting, but it might also require surgery in some cases.

Conclusion

Watching your baby’s tiny feet grow can be a fascinating journey. While there are some common foot issues newborns may encounter, most of them are normal and resolve themselves over time. Regular check-ups with your pediatrician will help ensure that any potential problems are caught early and addressed appropriately.

So, always take care of your baby’s feet, just like you take care of their diet, sleep and everything else, and your baby’s feet will stay happy and healthy.