Is It Normal? Common Foot Issues in Children

As a parent, it’s easy to worry when you notice your child walking differently or complaining about sore feet. But not every quirk is cause for concern.

At Achilles Foot Clinic, we see lots of little feet—and many of the issues parents flag are completely normal in growing children. Still, some symptoms can point to underlying problems that benefit from early attention.

Here’s a guide to the most common foot issues in children—and what’s normal, what’s not, and when to check in with a podiatrist.

1. Flat Feet

What’s normal:
Many children are born with flat feet. Their arches usually start developing around age 5–6. In most cases, no treatment is needed unless there’s pain or fatigue.

When to seek help:
If your child complains of sore feet, avoids physical activity, or their shoes wear out unevenly, it’s time for a check-up.

2. Toe Walking

What’s normal:
It’s common for toddlers to walk on their toes when they’re learning to walk. Most outgrow it by age 2 or 3.

When to seek help:
If toe walking continues past age 3, or your child struggles to place their heels down fully, an assessment is recommended.

3. In-toeing (“Pigeon Toes”)

What’s normal:
This often happens as the bones in the legs and hips rotate during growth. Most children naturally outgrow in-toeing without treatment.

When to seek help:
If it causes frequent tripping, affects walking, or persists into school-age years, a podiatrist can help monitor progress.

4. Out-toeing

What’s normal:
A mild outward foot angle is often due to how a child’s legs are positioned in the womb and usually corrects itself.

When to seek help:
Sudden onset, limping, or pain while walking should be reviewed.

5. Heel Pain (Sever’s Disease)

What’s normal:
Heel pain during growth spurts, especially in sporty kids, could be Sever’s disease—a common inflammation of the growth plate.

When to seek help:
Always. While common, this condition responds well to treatment, including rest, stretching, and proper footwear.

6. Warts, Ingrown Toenails & Skin Issues

What’s normal:
These are common and often minor, but can become painful if untreated.

When to seek help:
If the area is painful, infected, or not healing, it’s best to have it seen by a podiatrist.

In Summary

Kids’ feet go through a lot as they grow, and many foot quirks are completely normal. But pain, persistent odd walking patterns, or concerns about development are always worth getting checked.

Wondering if your child’s foot issue is normal?
Book a gentle, friendly foot check-up at Achilles Foot Clinic in Ballincollig. We’re here to put your mind—and their little feet—at ease.