Although having smelly feet is not always necessarily cause for serious concern, bad-smelling feet can be bothersome. If your child is complaining about their feet producing a foul odor, there are several things that you need to be aware of. The odor that is being emitted from your child’s feet is caused by bacteria. After your child spends a whole day sweating in a pair of sneakers, for instance, that sweat facilitates the multiplication of bacteria. If your child is not wearing socks, typically this only exacerbates the extent to which the bacteria can grow in your child’s shoes. In certain cases, your child’s shoes might even be home to a type of bacteria named Kyetococcus sedentarius. This bacteria can produce especially foul odors because they release volatile sulfur compounds. If you are concerned about your child’s smelly feet, be sure that they wash their feet and wear a new, clean pair of socks every day and alternate shoes regularly, especially if they get wet or sweaty. See a podiatrist for more ways in which you can protect the health of your child’s feet.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact James Pak, DPM of California. 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 during 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. Here are some things to consider...

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 for 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 Anaheim, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.