If your child plays sports, you’ve probably heard it before:
“My feet hurt.”
Foot pain in young athletes is incredibly common—and just as commonly brushed off as “growing pains.” But the truth is, persistent or recurring foot pain can be a sign of a deeper issue that needs attention. At Complete Feet, we work with student-athletes of all ages to help them stay active, pain-free, and injury-free.
Here’s what every parent should know.
Why Foot Pain Happens in Active Kids
Children and teens are still growing. Their bones, muscles, and ligaments are developing—while also taking on high-impact sports like:
-
Soccer
Football and baseball
-
Basketball
-
Track and cross-country
-
Cheer, dance, and gymnastics
- Combine rapid growth with repetitive stress and you’ve got a recipe for foot problems. The most common causes we see include:
-
Flat feet or poor foot mechanics
-
Improper or worn-out footwear
-
Overuse injuries from back-to-back practices and games
-
Poor shock absorption from hard courts or turf
-
Growth plate irritation, such as Sever’s disease
Signs Your Child’s Foot Pain Isn’t “Just Growing Pains”
It’s easy to dismiss mild complaints—but persistent symptoms are worth a closer look. Watch for:
-
Limping after practice
-
Complaints of pain in the heels, arches, or ankles
-
Avoiding running or walking long distances
-
Tripping more than usual
-
Swelling or tenderness after sports
-
Wearing out shoes unevenly
If pain is interfering with how your child moves or plays, it’s time to take action.
How Custom Orthotics Can Help
Custom orthotics are not just for adults. In fact, they can be a game-changer for young athletes by:
-
Supporting proper foot alignment
-
Reducing strain on joints, muscles, and tendons
-
Improving balance and coordination
-
Preventing overuse injuries
-
Alleviating pain from flat feet, pronation, and growth plate issues
At Complete Feet, we use non-weightbearing foam impressions to craft orthotics tailored to your child’s exact foot shape. It’s a more accurate and supportive method than digital scans.
Don’t Let Pain Derail Their Season
The earlier you address foot mechanics, the better your child’s long-term joint health will be—especially during growth spurts. Whether they’re competitive athletes or just active kids, we can help them move with confidence.
Book a Free Evaluation Before the Season Picks Up
Let us assess your child’s foot structure, gait, and footwear to make sure they’re playing at their best.
Complete Feet
3141 Lorna Road, Hoover, AL 35216
205-822-1606
Leave a Reply