As a parent, you want your child to grow up healthy and strong from head to toe. But if you've noticed them walking awkwardly, complaining of foot pain, or struggling to keep up with peers during playtime, you may be wondering if their developing feet need some extra support.
At Canyon Foot + Ankle Specialists, our experienced podiatrists understand your concerns. We frequently prescribe pediatric orthotics to help children in Burley, Twin Falls, and throughout the Magic Valley overcome various foot issues and enjoy a more active childhood. Let's explore how these customized shoe inserts can make a real difference in your child's comfort, mobility, and long-term foot health.
Common Children’s Foot Problems That May Benefit From Pediatric Orthotics ![How Pediatric Orthotics Support Childrens Foot Health]()
Many developmental conditions affect children as they grow, sometimes causing pain or difficulty with walking and running. Custom orthotics offer a non-invasive, effective way to address many of these issues.
Here are just a few conditions we help young patients overcome.
Flat Feet
Also called pes planus, pediatric flat foot is a condition where the arch of the foot is flatter than usual or even touches the ground while standing. Custom orthotics help support the arch, improve alignment, and reduce any associated pain or fatigue.
In-Toeing and Out-Toeing
If your child's feet point inward or outward when walking, specially designed orthotics can encourage proper foot positioning and gait. Early intervention may help prevent long-term issues with the hips, knees, or ankles.
Heel Pain
Active children, especially those involved in sports, may develop heel pain due to conditions like Sever's disease or Achilles tendonitis. Orthotics with heel cushioning and arch support can provide much-needed relief and protection.
High Arches
Just as flat feet sometimes need extra support, so do high arches. Custom orthotics can help distribute weight more evenly and absorb shock to reduce pain and improve stability for children with a cavus foot.
Toe Walking
Some children habitually walk on their toes, which can lead to tightness in the calf muscles and Achilles tendon over time. Orthotics may be part of a stretching and physical therapy plan to help promote a normal gait pattern.
But make no mistake: our Burley and Twin Falls podiatrists don’t believe in a “one size fits all” approach. We thoroughly examine your child's feet, ankles, and legs to determine if orthotics are the right treatment approach for their individual needs.
Benefits of Custom Orthotics for Growing Feet
Unlike over-the-counter shoe inserts, custom pediatric orthotics are made from precise molds of your child's feet to provide personalized support and correction. When incorporated into a comprehensive treatment plan, they offer important benefits.
Pain Relief
Properly fitting orthotics distribute pressure more evenly across the feet with targeted cushioning where it's needed most. This can go a long way in easing heel pain, arch discomfort, and other symptoms that may be keeping your child from fully enjoying their favorite activities.
Improved Biomechanics
As feet continue to develop, orthotics help guide proper alignment and encourage a normal gait pattern. This supports not just the feet and ankles but also the knees, hips, and spine as your child grows.
Better Athletic Performance
Orthotics give active kids a real boost by optimizing foot positioning and providing responsive support through every jump, pivot, and sprint. Many young athletes find they can run faster and play longer when foot pain no longer holds them back.
Preventing Future Problems
Addressing alignment issues early with orthotics may help prevent or delay the progression of certain foot deformities. Orthotics also reduce uneven wear and tear on the feet and lower limbs, which could otherwise lead to overuse injuries down the road.
Protection for Sensitive Feet
If your child has a medical condition like juvenile arthritis or diabetes that affects their feet, custom pediatric orthotics designed by our skilled podiatrists provide an extra layer of protection and support. This treatment approach helps manage symptoms, offload pressure from sensitive areas, and promote overall foot health.
Supporting Your Child's Long-Term Foot Health
As you can see, pediatric orthotics can play an important role in supporting your child's growing feet and enabling a more active, comfortable lifestyle. However, they’re just one aspect of podiatric care for kids.
At Canyon Foot + Ankle Specialists, we take a comprehensive approach to pediatric foot care. In addition to prescribing orthotics when appropriate, our podiatrists will guide you and your child on topics like:
- Choosing supportive, well-fitting shoes, especially for student athletes.
- Caring for skin and nails to prevent infections.
- Stretching exercises to improve flexibility.
- Safe training practices for young athletes.
- Warning signs of foot problems.
We know you want to be proactive about your child's health. Regular check-ups with a trusted podiatrist help catch any concerns early and ensure their feet stay on a healthy path through every growth stage.
See a Pediatric Podiatrist Who Cares
If you think your child may benefit from custom orthotics, or if you have any other concerns about their foot health and development, the team at Canyon Foot + Ankle Specialists is available to help your family. We’re your top choice for high-level care close to home. With two convenient office locations in the Magic Valley, it's easier than ever to get podiatry care to ensure healthy feet.