Orthotic insoles are generally not needed before age 3. Due to undeveloped foot structures, identifying foot issues in very young children is difficult. However, for walking-age children who have difficulty walking, orthotic insoles can be beneficial. Consider these three key questions before purchasing foot orthoses for your child.
Does your child suffer from any visible pathology?
When considering foot orthoses, evaluate the overall impact of the feet on your child’s musculoskeletal health. Doctors can often identify foot imbalances causing other issues. Early detection of pathologies allows foot orthoses to correct defects before the foot structures fully develop. For children over 3, treatable abnormalities include:
- Severe flatfoot: a collapsed or absent arch is a common cause for orthotic prescriptions in children and adults. Learn more about identifying flatfoot in kids.
- Duck feet: inward-pointing toes after first steps are common, but persistent or painful inward feet may benefit from orthotics.
- Bent knees: slightly bent legs at birth usually normalize, but if knees stay bent beyond age 6, intervention may be needed.
Can your child move easily?
The way your child moves is crucial in assessing the need for insoles. Movement difficulties do not always indicate foot problems, especially in children under 3. However, older children showing awkward movements should see a podiatrist. Signs indicating issues include:
- Tip-toe gait: usually disappears within months; if persistent beyond six months, it needs professional evaluation.
- Lameness: limping without injury may suggest limb instability, Sever’s disease, or musculoskeletal pain.
- Frequent falls: may result from flat feet, “X” knees, or inward feet.
If these signs are present, foot orthoses may be prescribed as treatment.
Does your child complain about pain?
Plantar problems can cause muscle, joint, and bone pain. Recurring discomfort in walking-age children may indicate a foot condition distinct from normal growing pains. Unusual pain is characterized by:
- Daytime discomfort
- Significant fatigue
- Redness
- Swollen legs or feet
- Worsening pain
Additionally, unusual shoe wear patterns can signal plantar deformities requiring attention.
PiedRéseau offers foot orthoses for young and old
Because young children’s feet are malleable, orthoses can be well-adjusted during growth. Some conditions need more advanced treatment like corrective orthotics. Consult a PiedRéseau podiatrist today to help your child move without pain.