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How can you care for your child who has foot pain?
- Have your child rest and protect the foot. Have your child take a break from any activity that may cause pain.
- Put ice or a cold pack on your child's foot for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your child's skin.
- Prop up the sore foot on a pillow when you ice it or anytime your child sits or lies down during the next 3 days. Try to keep it above the level of your child's heart. This will help reduce swelling.
- Your doctor may recommend that you wrap your child's foot with an elastic bandage. Keep the foot wrapped for as long as your doctor advises.
- Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
- If your child is not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if your child can take an over-the-counter medicine.
- If the doctor gave your child a prescription medicine for pain, give it as prescribed.
- Store your child's prescription pain medicines where no one else can get to them. When you are done using them, dispose of them quickly and safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital may have a drop-off site.
- If your doctor recommends crutches, help your child use them as directed.
- Have your child wear roomy footwear.
- As soon as pain and swelling end, have your child begin gentle foot exercises. Your doctor can tell you which exercises will help.
Foot pain: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- Your foot turns pale, white, blue, or cold.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You cannot move or stand on your foot.
- Your foot looks twisted or out of its normal position.
- Your foot is not stable when you step down.
- You have signs of infection, such as:
- Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
- Red streaks leading from the sore area.
- Pus draining from a place on your foot.
- A fever.
- Your foot is numb or tingly.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- You do not get better as expected.
- You have bruises from an injury that last longer than 2 weeks.
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The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.