Ankle Problems in Children
If your child has ankle problems, it can affect your child’s ability to stand, walk, run, and stay active. Your podiatrist is an expert at diagnosis and treatment of foot and ankle problems for people of all ages, including children. Dr. Larry Goldstein at Warner Robins Foot and Ankle in Warner Robins, GA, provides a wide range of treatments and services for people of all ages, including diagnosis and treatment of ankle problems in children.
What You Need To Know About Childhood Ankle Problems
Your child is still growing, so changes can occur in the joints, bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscles, all related to growth. There are other causes of ankle problems in children, including:
- Ligament strain
- Achilles tendonitis
- Ankle fractures
- Plantar fasciitis
You should bring your child in to visit the podiatrist if your child is experiencing:
- Intense, recurring pain on the outside of the ankle
- Loss of stabllity while standing, and difficulty walking on uneven surfaces
- Ankle swelling, tenderness, and stiffness
- Ankle pain due to an ankle injury
Our podiatrist will examine your child’s ankle and perform a few tests of joint mobility, gait, and muscle strength. Imaging studies may be ordered, including x-rays, ultrasound, or an MRI. Depending on what is causing your child’s ankle problem, your podiatrist may recommend:
- Prescription strength anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and inflammation
- Thermal therapy including placing ice and heat packs on the area
- Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and restore range of motion
- Steroid medications to reduce swelling and pain
- Ankle braces or casts to support or immobilize the ankle
- Custom-fit orthotics or footwear to help support your child’s feet and ankles
- Surgical therapy if necessary, to repair fractures or torn ligaments and tendons
Want To Know More?
To find out more about ankle problems in children and how your podiatrist can help, call Dr. Larry Goldstein at Warner Robins Foot and Ankle in Warner Robins, GA. You can reach him in the office by calling (478) 328-2008, so call today.