Children’s shoes, a Podiatry Perspective

As podiatrists we see the results of ill-fitting shoes daily.

Sometimes fashion dictates that we wear shoes not suitable for our foot shape or activity, therefore, as podiatrists we would like to give our advice for growing feet to prevent future problems.

Always have your child’s feet measured for width and length (poorly fitted footwear in young children could result in deformity, whereas in older children it may result in toenail and skin problems)
Inspect shoes regularly for unusual wear (normal wear is across the back of the heel, or between the back and the outside. Look out for SEVERE wear on the INSIDE or OUTSIDE of the heel which may carry forward to the sole of the shoe)
Check the size of the socks and tights especially if tumble dried as this may shrink the material
Try to alternate shoes, and avoid your child wearing the same shoes every day
Inspect your children’s feet regularly for inflamed nails and red pressure marks on the top of the joints
Beware of flat shoes such as ‘dolly’ type which can cause stress to the structures of the sole of the foot and back of the leg causing pain

To learn more about young feet click here.

For advice on babies first shoes click here.

For further advice or if you have any concerns check with your local HCPC Podiatrist or health professional.