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Experienced, Cutting-Edge Pediatric Podiatry

Pediatric Foot & Ankle Care

Like the rest of their body, your child's feet are constantly developing from the day they are born -- but the way a child's feet develop can ultimately affect the way they walk and move adults. Because of this, it's important to ensure that your child is getting the proper foot care they need during these crucial years, and that any conditions or deformities that arise are corrected as soon as possible.

At Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialists, our team of pediatric foot and ankle specialists are proud to provide diagnoses and treatment for children, including the correction of pediatric foot deformities. As the second largest foot and ankle practice in Illinois, our compassionate physicians are highly trained in the most advanced procedures and technology, and we’re passionate about providing long-term, minimally-invasive relief.

Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialists is now accepting walk-in appointments, and we proudly accept most major insurance providers. If your child needs care from the top pediatric foot doctors in the Chicago area, reach out and get started with us today.

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Experienced Children’s Foot & Ankle Doctor

Types and Symptoms of Childhood Foot Disorders

Every child develops differently, and their feet are no exception. The way the foot develops in childhood can affect a person for the rest of their life. That’s why it’s important to be aware of the types of foot disorders that can develop in childhood, as well as the treatments available to correct them.

At Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialists, we are dedicated to providing the best possible care for your child’s feet and ankles. We offer a variety of treatments for pediatric foot disorders, including:

  • Clubfoot: Clubfoot is a congenital deformity in which the foot is turned inward and downward. It affects approximately 1 in 1,000 live births. While it can be corrected with a variety of treatments, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible after birth to ensure the best possible outcome.
  • Flatfoot: Flatfoot, or pes planus, is a condition in which the arch of the foot collapses. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, obesity, and injury. Flatfoot is a common condition, affecting up to 20% of the population. While it is usually not painful, it can cause problems with balance and walking. 
  • Short Toe: Short toe, or brachydactyly, is a condition in which the bones of the toes are shortened. It can be caused by genetics or injury. Short toe is a relatively rare condition, affecting less than 1% of the population. While it is usually not painful, it can cause problems with balance and walking. 
  • Heel Pain in Children: Heel pain is a common problem in children, especially those who are active in sports. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including overuse, injury, and obesity. 

If your child is struggling with pain or reduced mobility, it's important to receive an accurate diagnosis from a qualified specialist. Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialists offers comprehensive care for all types of pediatric foot and ankle disorders. Our experienced team will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your child’s individual needs.

Compassionate Pediatric Foot Care Near You

Cutting-Edge Treatment for Foot Disorders in Children

Fortunately, there have been many advances in the treatment of foot disorders in recent years, and help is available for your child. At Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialists, we offer the latest and most effective treatments for all types of pediatric foot and ankle disorders.

We are proud to offer a variety of cutting-edge treatments for children, including:

  • Foot Orthotics: Foot orthotics are devices that are worn inside the shoes to support the feet and ankles. They are often used to treat conditions such as flatfoot, heel pain, and short toe. Children's orthotics are designed to fit the unique needs of growing feet, and they can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and foam.
  • Bracing: Bracing is often used to treat conditions such as clubfoot, flatfoot, and heel pain. There are a variety of braces available, and the type that is right for your child will depend on the severity of their condition.

If you'd like to learn more about how we can help your child's feet develop properly, the highly-qualified team at Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle is here to answer your questions. Reach out to us and schedule your first appointment today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the advanced treatments you offer for pediatric foot conditions?

At Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle, we’re passionate about utilizing the latest techniques and technology to offer our patients the best outcomes possible following their treatment plan. To learn more about the more advanced treatments we provide for conditions of the ankle, visit our Treatments page.

My child has injured their foot and is in pain. What can I do in the short term?

If your child’s foot or ankle is in non-emergent pain and you’re looking for short-term relief before you visit the doctor, it’s best to try the RICE method:

  • Rest the affected area
  • Ice the affected area
  • Compress the affected muscle
  • Elevate the affected limb

If your child is in extreme pain or has experienced a serious injury, emergency walk-in care is available through Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle, and you should seek treatment as soon as possible.

Do you accept insurance for pediatric foot care?

Yes! Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialists is proud to accept insurance from a wide range of providers across the Midwest, including Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, and more. You can find our list of accepted providers on our Insurances page, and if you don’t see your provider listed, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly and knowledgeable staff to discuss your options.

How can I get started with the best pediatric foot doctor near me?

At Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialists, we strive to make it as simple as possible to help your child get the best start possible. Just use our online scheduling tool to select a time that works for you. We’re also accepting walk-in appointments, so feel free to visit one of our convenient locations near you.