What is it?
Teenagers and young adults can develop foot problems, including bunions, painful flat feet, tarsal coalition and accessory navicular.
What causes it?
- Inherited foot shape.
- Growth.
- Sport and activity levels.
Common symptoms
- Pain.
- Changes in foot shape.
- Repeated ankle sprains.
- Difficulty with sport or shoes.
How is it diagnosed?
Assessment includes examination and X-rays, with further scans if needed.
Things you can do now
- Make sure shoes fit well and are replaced as feet grow
- Rest from sport during painful flare-ups
- Keep active with a range of sports
Treatment
Treatment is tailored to your individual needs, symptoms and goals. Depending on your situation, it may include footwear advice, insoles, physiotherapy and surgery in selected cases, usually once growth has finished.
Mr Jeyaseelan will talk you through the options that are right for you at your consultation.
When to see a specialist
- Pain is stopping a young person from playing sport
- The foot is changing shape or becoming stiff
- There are repeated ankle sprains
What to expect
Many adolescent foot problems settle with time and simple treatment. Surgery, when needed, is usually planned once growth has finished.
Common questions
Where can I see a specialist about adolescent & young adult foot problems in London?
Mr Lucky Jeyaseelan, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon who specialises only in the foot and ankle, sees private and insured patients with adolescent & young adult foot problems at Align Orthopaedics on Harley Street, The London Clinic on Devonshire Place, HCA London Bridge Hospital, HCA UK at The Shard, HCA UK City of London on Old Broad Street and The Holly Hospital in Buckhurst Hill, Essex. See all clinic locations or request an appointment.
Do I need a GP referral?
Self-funding patients can book directly, though a GP letter is helpful. Most insurers need a GP referral before they authorise your consultation, so check with yours first.
This information is general and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Your diagnosis and treatment plan will be tailored to you.