Nail Problems:
Children generally do not suffer the same nail problems that adults do, as many changes seen in adult nails are due to the aging process.
Problems with children’s nails are more likely to be as a result of injury.
- Trauma to the nail can cause discolouration or a blood blister under the nail plate. In some cases the nail may be so traumatised that it will fall off, however providing there is no permanent damage to the cells producing the nail, it should grow back again in time.
- Nail shape can cause problems if the nail is curved and growing into soft tissue, and an ingrown toenail develops. This is often very painful and can become infected, and can be further aggravated by trauma, and tight footwear.
- Treatment options can be discussed with a podiatrist and range from regular nail maintenance to surgical options.
Warts/ Verruca pedis
Warts can occur all over the body, but especially on the feet. Warts are more common in children than in adults, and are very contagious and contractable via direct or indirect contact.
What are they?
Warts are masses of benign growths on the skin caused by infection with the Human Papilloma Virus which causes the top layer of skin to overproduce skin cells, producing a hard mass.
Warts commonly occur on the sole of the foot, and may have a black dot in the centre. The normal skin lines will not be present across the wart area, and they are usually painful if squeezed from the sides. It is not uncommon to have multiple warts at one time.
How is the virus that causes warts passed on?
- The Virus is passed on via close skin to skin contact or even indirect contact with objects that have been in contact with a wart.
- Through cuts or broken skin on the feet
- At public showers or pools where footwear is not worn
How do I get rid of warts?
- Warts usually resolve on their own within two years, however treatment can speed things up.
- Speak to your podiatrist about the best type of treatment for you or your child
- Your podiatrist may suggest any of the following: Salicylic acid treatment, Cryotherapy, Surgery, chemical treatments or alternative treatments.
- Treatment of warts usually takes both time and patience.
How can I reduce the chance of my child getting warts/ spreading them?
- Do not allow sharing of shoes, socks, towels or personal items with somebody who has a wart.
- Avoid spreading warts to other areas of the body by avoiding picking or touching them.
- Wear footwear in public pools and change rooms.
- Wear a bandaid over the wart when swimming.
