Children are not simply small adults — their developing bones, joints, and soft tissues respond differently to stress, injury, and growth-related changes. At Momentum Foot and Ankle, we understand how important it is to address foot and ankle concerns early in life. Left untreated, many pediatric conditions can affect the way a child walks, participates in activities, and develops throughout their growing years.
Dr. Chris Zimmer is a fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon with specialized experience evaluating and managing pediatric foot and ankle conditions. During his residency at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center, Dr. Zimmer evaluated and managed more than 300 pediatric patients — bringing a level of focused expertise that is rare in a private practice setting. Whether your child has been experiencing foot pain, difficulty walking, or recently sustained an injury, we are here to provide a thorough evaluation, honest answers, and a treatment plan tailored to your child’s specific needs.
We take a conservative-first approach whenever possible, always weighing the benefits and risks of every option before recommending intervention. Our goal is to help your child stay active, pain-free, and on track for healthy development.
Pediatric Conditions We Treat
Flat Feet in Children
Flat feet — also known as pediatric flatfoot or pes planus — is one of the most common concerns parents bring to a foot and ankle specialist. While some degree of flatness is normal in toddlers as the arch develops, persistent or symptomatic flat feet can lead to foot pain, fatigue, and issues with gait as a child grows. Dr. Zimmer evaluates whether your child’s flat feet are flexible or rigid, symptomatic or asymptomatic, and develops a management plan accordingly — ranging from supportive footwear and orthotics to more advanced interventions when necessary. Learn more about flat feet in children.
Toe Walking
Toe walking — walking on the balls of the feet without the heel touching the ground — is common in toddlers just learning to walk, but it typically resolves on its own by age 2. When toe walking persists beyond early childhood, it may indicate underlying issues such as tight Achilles tendons, neurological differences, or habitual patterns that benefit from early evaluation. Our team assesses the cause and severity of toe walking and works with families to determine the most appropriate approach, which may include stretching, physical therapy, casting, or other interventions. Learn more about toe walking.
Pediatric Sports Injuries
Young athletes are especially vulnerable to foot and ankle injuries as their bones are still growing and growth plates remain open. Common pediatric sports injuries include ankle sprains, Sever’s disease (heel pain at the growth plate), stress reactions, and tendon injuries — all of which require age-appropriate evaluation and management. Dr. Zimmer understands the unique demands placed on young athletes and works to get them back to the sport they love safely, with a focus on preventing re-injury and protecting long-term development. Learn more about pediatric sports injuries.
Pediatric Fractures
Fractures in children differ meaningfully from adult fractures because of the presence of open growth plates — areas of developing cartilage that, if injured, can affect how a bone grows over time. Foot and ankle fractures in children require careful evaluation to ensure proper healing and alignment. Dr. Zimmer has advanced training in lower extremity trauma and fracture management, giving him the expertise to diagnose and treat pediatric fractures with precision — whether through conservative casting or surgical fixation when needed. Learn more about pediatric fractures.
Why Choose Momentum Foot and Ankle for Your Child’s Care?
When it comes to your child’s health, you deserve a provider who combines clinical expertise with genuine compassion. At Momentum Foot and Ankle, Dr. Zimmer brings fellowship-level surgical training alongside hands-on pediatric experience to every appointment. We take the time to listen to your concerns, explain your child’s diagnosis in plain language, and walk you through every option — because informed families make confident decisions.
We are committed to conservative, thoughtful care before considering any intervention, and we prioritize your child’s comfort, growth, and long-term wellbeing at every stage of treatment. From routine evaluations to complex cases, we are here for your family.
Ready to take the next step? Contact us today to schedule an appointment for your child. Call us at (561) 369-4455 — we proudly serve families throughout Boynton Beach and the greater Palm Beach County area.
