Toddlers’ feet are plump which gives them the appearance of having no arches. However, if your child looks a bit knock-kneed and doesn’t like to walk or run they might have a foot problem.

A tendency to ingrowing toenails can indicate that the big toes are pulling up against the top of the shoes while the child is walking.

Curly toes should be checked even if they run in the family, we can often straighten them using a silicone splint that’s east to take on and off.

Pigeon-toed children should have their feet checked, some children will grow out of this way of walking but many do not.

Children often catch verrucae (plantar warts). Small verrucae can be easily treated with an over-the-counter preparation but any painful or obstinate verrucae should be professionally treated.

It is important to look after childrens’ feet as a lot of conditions are easily treated in childhood which are difficult to treat as adults.

Bunions need to be treated very early so if you have a family tendency to develop bunions you should have your childrens’ feet checked.

Shoefitting is important; small children won’t notice if their shoes are too small. Young children need to have their shoes checked every six weeks by a qualified shoefitter.

Shoes should never be handed down from one child to another; if the older child has a walking problem the younger one might develop a foot problem.