Does My Child Need Orthotics?

Many children can walk on their in-toes or out-toes until they’re about two years old. Knock knees are also normal for kids during this time. But if your child’s feet are flat or splayed, it may affect their walking and other activities. Flat feet may also lead to other problems such as bow-legs, frequent tripping, or pronation. They may also fall more easily or lag behind in sports.

Custom-made orthotics

For many children, the process of acquiring orthotics involves a series of visits and various tests. One of these visits is known as a plaster casting. This process consists of Dr. Jarman wrapping strips of wet plaster around the child’s foot. This process usually takes around 10 minutes and the doctor remains with the child during the process. Once the plaster has hardened, the child’s foot mold can be sent to a lab for custom-made orthotics.

If you suspect your child may have flat feet, it’s advisable to check their shoes for abnormal wear or excessive heel wear. Some red flags that may be a sign of an issue include bulging shoe upper material and excessive heel wear. While custom orthotics for children usually don’t become necessary until the child is about six, if your child experiences abnormal foot growth, they may need these devices. However, you should always consult with a pediatrician before allowing your child to wear them.

Cavus foot

Several treatment options are available for cavus foot in children, including non-surgical treatments and the use of orthotic devices. Orthotics, braces, and shoe modifications can help with foot drop. In some cases, surgery may be necessary. To find the best solution for your child, consult a foot specialist. Listed below are a few of the common treatments for cavus foot in children. Read on to learn more.

A study by an Australian group published three relevant papers on the condition. In one study, Burns et al. examined the relationship between pes cavus, pain, and foot deformity. Among these patients, 60% complained of foot pain, while only 23% did not. The pressure-time integrals in all three areas of the foot were higher in patients with pes cavus compared to healthy controls. The two factors were significantly correlated.

Flat feet

Children with flat feet can benefit from arch supports, which can help reduce the pain and discomfort caused by the flat feet. You can find orthotics over the counter or have a custom one designed. Your child may also benefit from wearing supportive shoes and avoiding those without arch supports. Stretching exercises can help improve a child’s foot function, and they may need to undergo surgery. To avoid these painful outcomes, your child should visit a podiatrist for a foot examination and assessment.

Some insoles provide support by stimulating the skin on the bottom of the foot. These orthotics are called “proprioceptive insoles” and are designed to realign the skeletal system and reduce fatigue. Some even feature a velvet fabric layer to keep your child’s feet cool in hot weather. The 3 cm firm foot arch supports will alleviate pain and correct abnormal walking patterns. They also prevent the development of osteoarthritis, metatarsalgia, patellofemoral syndrome, and low back pain.

Sever’s disease

Children who suffer from Sever’s disease often develop pain in the heels, arch, and Achilles tendon. This pain usually worsens after activity, such as running, jumping, or playing sports. A physical examination can diagnose the disorder, and the treatment may involve the use of orthotics. Children with this condition should be examined by an orthopedic specialist. The doctor can use a history and physical examination to make a diagnosis.

Rehabilitative exercises can help relieve pain associated with Sever’s. Your sports therapist can recommend a series of stretching exercises that will target your calves, hamstrings, and arches. It is crucial to stop playing through your Sever’s disease symptoms, because doing so can exacerbate your pain. Instead, focus on lower-impact sports and switching to less-intense activities to help ease the condition.