Question
A 17-month-old infant, after taking cold medicine and antibiotics, is unwilling to stand or walk on their right foot and experiences pain while walking. The child has previously had a habit of kicking legs, but not frequently. The parents consulted a doctor who advised to observe the condition for a week and seek medical attention again if the symptoms persist. They want to know if kicking legs is a normal behavior and if it could be a sign of pediatric paralysis.
Answer
The possible causes include calcium deficiency, foot sprain, or an ill-fitting shoe. Calcium deficiency may lead to night terrors, muscle cramps, or delayed teething. Foot sprain may be accompanied by foot swelling or bruising. It is recommended to inspect the child’s foot and shoe to determine the specific cause. If the test results show calcium deficiency, it is suggested to use calcium gluconate for treatment, as it is more effective.