One of the DPM's I shadowed (he specializes in foot and ankle reconstruction, never removes corns, hangnails, etc.) told me that a lot of podiatrists dont like to treat too many children because of lawsuits. What he told me was basically if you correct a child's foot deformity as a kid, when they reach adolescence, it is possible that what you did could cause other biomechanical and physiological problems for them as they grow, and when they turn 18 they could turn around and sew you. At least from a surgical standpoint it can be a real liability. In terms of biomechanical (i.e. orthotics) and vascular issues I am sure that it is no big deal. I am also interested in doing some podopediatric work, so I guess I'll have to see what the scope of practice is when I get to pod school! On a side note, there have been some successes. Kristi Yamaguchi had a club foot as a kid. I heard a podiatrist helped her with it (using orthotics, etc.) and it helped her get into skating. So you never know!
