October is Foot Health Month – a national campaign to communicate why people need to look after their foot health.

The Australian Podiatry Association advises that from children to seniors to athletes to those suffering from chronic illness, a visit to the podiatrist can have a positive impact on people’s lives.

Balance Podiatry Dubbo podiatrist Bevan Charlton-White said his centre was driving awareness about the importance of children’s foot health during October.

“Children’s feet and legs develop rapidly, and it can be difficult for parents to know what is and isn’t normal,” he said.

“Yet how they develop impacts on the child’s ability to live happy, healthy and active lives.

“Conditions ranging from delayed walking, tippy-toeing, flat feet and bowed legs, pigeon toeing and clumsiness, ingrown toenails and plantar warts are all common in childhood.

“Parents need to better understand how to properly care for their child’s feet, including who to turn to for professional advice.

“Podiatrists can treat and prevent these conditions to avoid lifestyle-limiting issues later in life.”

Mr Charlton-White said footwear choice was an important factor in children’s foot health.

“Whether you’re buying $10 shoes or $100 shoes, they should offer the right support and enough growing room for feet to develop naturally,” he said.

“Inappropriate, poorly-fitted shoes may affect the long-term development of feet and cause problems with pain, balance and posture.”

Linda Daley was a firm believer in the importance of children’s foot health, taking daughter, Indiana, 9, for a podiatry check-up this week.

"It's fundamental,” she said.

“It's the foundation of their little bodies."