Juvenile osteochondritis dissecans (JOCD) is a disorder that occurs in young people whose growth plates have not closed yet. A joint is where two bones come together. Normally hard bone is covered with a softer form of bone called cartilage at the joint surface. With JOCD, a piece of bone and the cartilage that covers it becomes loose and at times float around inside the joint. The ankle is one such joint where this can occur. It is more common in active children and young adolescents. JOCD is thought to be related to repetitive trauma to the affected area. Those who have this condition usually feel a vague pain that gets worse with activity and improves with rest. There may be a feeling of the joint locking or getting stuck. Sometimes the joint affected may become swollen. Initially, one who has this will want to immobilize the foot and modify activity. Surgical treatment might be necessary.  Most kids recover well from this condition, but it can lead to early arthritis. If you feel your child is suffering from this disorder or has any other foot or ankle pain, see a chiropodist who can diagnose and treat such conditions.

If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, please consult with one of the chiropodists from Complete Family Footcare & Therapy. Our clinicians will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Common Causes of Foot Pain in Children

While children can experience many of the same foot problems as adults do, some foot problems may be more common during childhood. 

Causes of foot pain in children can include:

• Deformities that are present from birth, such as flat feet or clubfoot

• Sever’s disease, which is an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone

• Various sports injuries, such as sprains and fractures 

• Ingrown toenails

• Athlete’s foot

• Plantar warts

Prevention

It is important to look after the health of children’s feet in order to prevent future problems from arising. Keep your child’s feet clean and dry, trim their toenails regularly, ensure their shoes fit properly, and keep a watchful eye on any symptoms of foot pain, such as limping. If you notice any symptoms or if your child complains of foot pain, a chiropodist can help. 

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