[Fractures of the child's foot]

The incidence of fractures of the foot in childhood depends considerably upon whether the site of fracture is the hindfoot, midfoot or forefoot. Fractures of the talus or calcaneus are rare. However, in the literature there are a significant number of publications on these fractures from the point of view of arthrosis problems or aseptic necrosis. In contrast, only few reports have been published about mid- or forefoot fractures in children. Generally, treatment problems and long-term prognosis are believed to be unproblematic. However, follow-up studies of these fractures have shown that some of them can be followed by significant disabilities concerning the plantar arch or the gait pattern. More extensive follow-up studies seem to be necessary to point out specific recommendations for treatment of foot fractures in childhood. Some of the problems are discussed in detail.