Bunions in children are a foot condition in which the big toe shifts inward toward the second toe, creating a visible bump along the base of the joint. While bunions are more often associated with adults, this condition can appear as early as 10 years old. In younger patients, the deformity is typically more flexible, but may progress if not properly monitored. Early recognition is important because developing bones and joints are more responsive to intervention, which can help slow or manage progression.

Symptoms of juvenile bunions include a noticeable bump on the side of the foot, redness, swelling, and discomfort when wearing shoes. Some children may report pain during physical activity or after long periods of standing. In certain cases, the big toe may overlap or crowd the neighboring toes, affecting alignment and balance. Parents may also observe changes in gait or complaints of pressure in the forefoot. Although some children experience minimal discomfort, the visual deformity and gradual progression can still impact long-term foot health.

Risk factors for juvenile bunions often include genetics, particularly when the condition is inherited through the maternal side of the family. Structural factors like flat feet, ligament laxity, and abnormal foot mechanics can also contribute to bunion development. Footwear choices that place pressure on the toes may worsen symptoms, although they are not always the primary cause in children. Rapid growth phases can further influence how the foot structure changes, making monitoring during development especially important.

It is important to understand that juvenile bunions require attention even when symptoms are mild, as early management can help prevent worsening deformity. Wearing supportive footwear, activity modifications, and proper evaluation can make a significant difference in comfort and function. If your child has a bunion or shows signs of toe misalignment, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Wesley Chapel, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, occur when the skin on the bottom of the heel becomes dry, thickened, and splits under pressure. This condition is common during the summer months when people wear open-backed shoes that expose the skin to dry air and friction. The heel naturally expands with weight-bearing, and when the skin lacks moisture and elasticity, it can crack. While mild cases may seem cosmetic, deeper cracks can become painful and increase the risk of infection. Maintaining smooth and healthy feet is essential for comfort, mobility, and overall foot health.

Symptoms of cracked heels include rough or flaky skin, visible splits, and thickened areas around the heel. As the condition progresses, cracks may deepen and cause pain when standing or walking. In severe cases, bleeding and inflammation can occur, making daily activities uncomfortable. Individuals with underlying skin conditions such as eczema may experience more persistent dryness and irritation. Recognizing early signs allows for prompt care and reduces the likelihood of complications that may require medical treatment.

Several risk factors contribute to the development of cracked heels. Obesity increases pressure on the heel, causing the skin to expand and crack more easily. Standing for long periods of time, especially on hard surfaces, adds stress to the heel pad. Wearing unsupportive or open-back shoes exposes the skin to environmental dryness. Medical conditions such as eczema and diabetes can affect skin integrity and healing. Dehydration and poor foot hygiene may also play a role. These factors combined can worsen dryness and lead to painful fissures if not addressed properly.

Keeping feet smooth during summer involves consistent moisturizing with thick creams that contain urea or lactic acid, regular gentle exfoliation, and wearing supportive footwear that protects the heel. Hydration and proper skin care routines help maintain elasticity and prevent cracking. Avoiding prolonged barefoot walking and using cushioned insoles can reduce pressure on the heels. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective treatment to restore skin health and prevent further complications.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Wesley Chapel, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot corns develop as a result of repeated pressure or friction on the skin. They often appear as small, thickened areas of hardened skin, usually on the toes or areas of the foot that bear excessive pressure. In podiatry, corns are considered a protective response by the body, where skin builds up to shield underlying tissues from irritation. Although they may seem minor at first, corns can become painful and interfere with daily walking, if not properly managed. Symptoms of foot corns typically include a raised, hardened bump with a dense, hardened center. The surrounding skin may feel tender or sensitive, especially when pressure is applied through walking or wearing shoes. Some people experience a sharp or burning sensation in the affected area. Corns often develop gradually, and many people first notice discomfort when wearing tight or narrow footwear. The skin may become increasingly thick and uncomfortable, making it difficult to find relief without professional care.

The primary cause of foot corns is repeated friction or pressure. This is commonly linked to ill-fitting shoes that squeeze the toes or create uneven pressure points on the foot. Wearing high-heeled shoes, tight toe boxes, and shoes without proper support can all contribute to corn formation. Toe deformities such as hammertoes or bunions can also increase friction between toes or against footwear. In addition, walking or standing for long periods of time on hard surfaces can increase the likelihood of developing corns due to constant pressure on specific areas of the foot.

Risk factors for foot corns include improper footwear, having foot deformities, and participating in activities that place repetitive stress on the feet. Individuals with diabetes or circulation issues may be at a higher risk for complications, as skin changes in the feet should be monitored closely. Without treatment, corns may continue to grow and become more painful, potentially leading to changes in gait or posture as a result of trying to avoid discomfort.

A podiatrist can diagnose foot corns through a simple physical examination and determine the underlying cause of pressure or friction. Treatment may involve removing thickened skin, recommending proper footwear, and addressing biomechanical issues that contribute to corn formation. Custom orthotics or padding may also be used to reduce pressure and prevent recurrence. If you have symptoms of a corn, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief solutions and prevention tips.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Wesley Chapel, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.