Adults aren’t the only ones who sometimes need 3D-printed orthotics. In fact, this type of orthotic is also widely recommended to treat foot pain in children. In this article, we’ll cover the main issues that young ones may face and explain why 3D orthotics are a valuable aid.
Symptoms to Watch for in Detecting Your Child’s Foot Pain
There are many symptoms that could indicate a child is suffering from foot problems. These should be closely monitored, as younger children who are still growing need to be taken care of quickly to ensure proper development of their body (including feet, posture, and balance) and prevent any serious complications.
Common foot problems in children include targeted pain, gait or posture issues (after 3 years old), limping, frequent falls, visible deformities (in the feet or knees), abnormal fatigue during physical activities, or difficulty keeping up with other children. If one or more of these symptoms are noticed, an examination should be conducted to determine the issue and whether custom orthotics are necessary. In most cases, this type of orthotic provides effective relief and correction.
3D-Printed Orthotics: A Solution for Children’s Foot Pain
Young children typically don’t need orthotics as their bodies tend to self-correct. However, after this stage, 3D orthotics are an excellent solution for treating foot pain in children. This is especially true for conditions such as flat feet, duck feet, and bowed knees, to name just a few common ones. In such cases, the 3D orthotic is essential because it helps stabilize the foot, provide better support, and realign the lower limbs. This ensures the child grows correctly and without pain.
At What Age Can a Child Wear Orthotics?
Before the age of 3, children’s foot pain should be monitored, but they typically don’t require orthotics as their body is still developing and their gait will naturally adjust. However, after the age of 3, if the issues persist or remain visible, it is highly recommended to prescribe custom orthotics to relieve the pain and correct the problem as the child develops. It is during these years that posture is most crucial.
The Advantages of 3D Printing for Orthotics
Why are 3D-printed orthotics an optimal solution for treating children’s foot pain? Because, unlike over-the-counter orthotics from pharmacies or big-box stores, they are created through a highly precise mold of the foot, made down to the millimeter, offering fully customized support designed according to the child’s unique morphology and specific problem.
Highly accurate, Skeltec’s 3D-printed orthotics also allow healthcare professionals to closely monitor the situation over time and make adjustments if needed. This is an important point, as children’s bodies change quickly, requiring a great capacity for adaptation. This type of orthotic is the most reliable, of the highest quality, and safe to meet the specific needs of younger patients suffering from foot pain.
Choosing 3D Orthotics to Offer the Best Possible Development for Your Child
In cases of foot pain in children, 3D-printed orthotics offer many advantages. They provide a unique adaptability that helps children throughout different phases of their development and can correct many problems before they become truly disabling.
Are you interested in 3D custom orthotics to treat your young patients? Contact our Skeltec team today for more details on the options available to you.