Juvenile plantar dermatosis is a common and chronic dry skin condition of the feet that usually affects pre-adolescent children between the ages of three and 14 years. It is also known as atopic winter feet and forefoot dermatitis. This condition affects boys slightly more often than girls. It is rarely seen in adults but can persist into adulthood. Juvenile plantar dermatosis can be caused by repetitive frictional movements, the occlusive effect of wearing covered footwear (particularly synthetic shoes), excessive sweating, genetic sensitivities, or warm or cool climate changes. This problem is usually visible on the weight-bearing areas of the soles, ball of the big toes, and forefoot of the foot with itchy, sore, shiny, red skin that has a glazed appearance and a loss of the epidermal ridge pattern. Typically, both feet are affected. The most common complication of juvenile plantar dermatosis is painful cracks and fissures, which may become infected. This affliction is sometimes confused with other skin conditions, such as atopic eczema, plantar psoriasis, or tinea pedis. Wearing well-fitting leather shoes, two or more pairs of cotton and wool socks, and changing socks regularly will help reduce friction. Moisturizing the feet will help prevent dry skin. Resting the feet to allow any fissures to heal will help as well. If your child is experiencing problems with the skin of their feet, consult with a podiatrist who can diagnose any conditions and provide options for treatment.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Eastern Carolina Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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