Scottsdale is a desert city in Arizona east of the state capital Phoenix, known for its spa resorts and golf courses. It is an affluent city with a very high population of senior citizens. Due to proximity to large metropolitan cities like Phoenix, Scottsdale offers many opportunities for specialized pediatric services to its children. Pediatric foot care is given special attention in this region to aid the healthy development of a child’s feet and gait pattern that will help them throughout life. Scottsdale pediatric foot care clinics are equipped to offer the best services possible.
The following are the elements of pediatric foot care:
Diagnosis
Pediatric foot care clinics in the Scottsdale region use the latest equipment to diagnose any abnormality or illness of a child’s feet. The clinic takes X-rays to look for signs of possible bone injury, arthritis, infection, etc. A podiatrist uses visual examination along with physical tests to determine if there is any deformity in the child’s feet. Such symptoms are hyper-flexible flat feet, high arches, pigeon toe, etc. Diagnosis will include physical tests such as applying pressure on the foot to assess pain level, placing the foot in different positions to see if there is any deformity and observing how the child walks.
Treatment
If diagnosis reveals any abnormality or illness, treatment begins immediately to protect the growth of the feet’s healthy bones, tendons, and muscles. Lazy toes syndrome is treated by covering the affected toes with specially designed custom-made shoe inserts. Orthotics are also used to treat plantar fasciitis, hallux valgus, and other problems. During growing years, special arch support is provided to the child to prevent flat foot deformity. Proper footwear prescription depends on the individual needs of the child. Other treatment options include surgery if necessary.
Injury Treatment
Pediatric foot care in Scottsdale offers services to treat a child’s feet injuries. Treatment also includes assessing the injured area and providing the support needed to promote healing. In case of open wounds, appropriate dressing is supplied along with antibiotics if required. Wound care instructions are given for at-home treatment. Injury treatment also applies to trauma cases such as foot fractures and dislocations. A child who has a fracture in the feet is typically immobilized with plaster of Paris for around three to four weeks, along with antibiotic treatment. In case of dislocation, immediate reduction by the physician will prevent long-term disability. Trauma cases are followed up at regular intervals until full recovery is achieved.
Prevention and Education
Education is provided to the child and parent about healthy foot care habits such as wearing shoes that fit correctly, using proper techniques for putting on footwear, removing footwear after long periods of walking or standing, and promptly caring for any foot ailment. Education is the best way to prevent foot and ankle issues that can affect a child throughout their life. Other preventive measures include checking for high foot arch, which can increase the risk of ankle sprains, flat feet, lead to plantar fasciitis, and other lower limb conditions.
Regular visits to a pediatric foot care clinic in the Scottsdale region are advised to assess the child’s feet at regular intervals. Pediatric foot care clinics also provide information about sports-related foot injuries in children. Pediatric foot care is a specialized field and should be handled by experts.
