As children grow, their feet go through rapid changes in shape and structure. Whether your child is just starting to walk or is an active teen, the health of their feet is crucial for their overall development and mobility. One common solution that can help address various foot conditions in children is orthotics—custom-designed shoe inserts that provide support and improve foot function.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the role of orthotics in paediatric podiatry, how they benefit growing feet, and how custom orthotics can provide much-needed relief for common paediatric foot issues.
What Are Orthotics?
Orthotics are custom-made shoe inserts designed to correct foot alignment, provide support, and reduce pain. They are often used to treat a variety of foot conditions, from flat feet to high arches, and can significantly improve foot function. In paediatric podiatry, orthotics are tailored specifically to the child’s foot structure and needs, helping to correct or manage issues as they grow.
Why Are Orthotics Important for Growing Feet?
Children’s feet are constantly changing, and foot issues that seem minor can lead to more serious problems if left untreated. Orthotics play a critical role in maintaining healthy foot development and preventing or managing foot conditions.
Some of the reasons why orthotics are important for growing feet include:
- Correcting Foot Alignment
Orthotics help align the foot properly, preventing common issues such as overpronation (where the foot rolls inward) or supination (where the foot rolls outward). Proper alignment can reduce the risk of other musculoskeletal problems, including knee, hip, and back pain, which can arise from poor foot mechanics. - Providing Support and Cushioning
Growing feet are particularly vulnerable to pressure, especially when children are constantly on the move. Orthotics provide cushioning and support to the foot, helping to absorb shock and reduce pressure on the developing joints, tendons, and ligaments. - Preventing Foot Deformities
Custom orthotics can help prevent or treat foot deformities such as flat feet, high arches, or bunions. By offering the right support, they can help prevent these issues from worsening and causing long-term discomfort or joint problems. - Alleviating Pain
Many children experience foot pain, especially if they are active in sports or have poor footwear. Orthotics can provide immediate relief by redistributing pressure, improving foot function, and reducing strain on muscles and joints. - Supporting Proper Gait Development
The way a child walks (or their gait) plays a big role in their overall mobility. Orthotics help guide the foot into the correct position, supporting healthy gait development. This is crucial during the early stages of walking when children are still learning how to distribute their weight properly.
Common Paediatric Foot Conditions Treated with Orthotics
There are several common foot conditions in children that can benefit from custom orthotics. Some of the most frequently treated conditions include:
- Flat Feet (Pes Planus): Children with flat feet may experience pain or discomfort, especially after long periods of walking or running. Orthotics can help provide support to the arches and reduce discomfort.
- High Arches (Pes Cavus): High arches can cause excessive pressure on the balls and heels of the feet, leading to pain and discomfort. Orthotics can help distribute pressure evenly and alleviate pain.
- Overpronation and Supination: Both overpronation (foot rolling inward) and supination (foot rolling outward) can lead to improper gait and muscle imbalances. Orthotics help correct these issues and support healthy foot function.
- Heel Pain (Plantar Fasciitis): Heel pain is not uncommon in active children, and orthotics can provide much-needed relief by cushioning the heel and reducing pressure.
- Bunions and Hammertoes: Early intervention with orthotics can help reduce the risk of developing bunions and hammertoes by ensuring the toes are properly aligned and the foot is supported.
The Custom Orthotics Process for Children
The process of obtaining custom orthotics for your child involves a few key steps:
- Evaluation: The first step is a thorough evaluation by a podiatrist, who will assess your child’s foot structure, gait, and any existing issues or pain. This assessment may involve physical exams and imaging techniques such as X-rays or foot scans.
- Casting or Scanning: To create custom orthotics, the podiatrist may take a mold or scan of your child’s feet. This ensures that the orthotics are designed specifically for their unique foot structure and needs.
- Fitting and Adjustment: Once the orthotics are made, your child will try them on, and the podiatrist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure the best fit and comfort.
- Follow-up Care: After receiving the orthotics, regular follow-up appointments are important to monitor your child’s progress and make adjustments if needed. As your child’s feet grow, their orthotics may need to be updated.
Conclusion
Orthotics can play a vital role in paediatric podiatry, helping to correct foot problems, alleviate pain, and support healthy foot development. Whether your child has flat feet, high arches, or simply experiences discomfort from growing feet, custom orthotics provide a tailored solution that can make a world of difference.
If you think your child might benefit from orthotics, don’t wait for foot problems to get worse. Early intervention is key, and our team at Foot Focus is here to help guide you through the process. Schedule a consultation today and give your child the best foundation for their feet.
Book an appointment today to learn more about custom orthotics for growing feet!