The number of cases of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) are on the rise, especially among children at schools, as the disease is highly contagious. School administrators at the Ministry of Health advise that children who have the disease stay at home “for at least seven days.” Additionally, they advise that any immediate objects in the school environment should be cleaned frequently to help reduce the spread of the virus. Good hygiene as well as caution during close contact should be encouraged among your children to help toward prevention of HFMD.

Making sure that your children maintain foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet in childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care from birth to school-age.

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

• Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet
• Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet

• Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus
• Be watchful of any pain or injury
• Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible
• Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Chambersburg and Mcconnellsburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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