Kids Orthotic Insoles

Kids Orthotic Insoles

Paediatric OrthoticsTop of Form

The Importance of Foot Care for Developing Feet: A Focus on Children's Orthotic Insoles

Correct foot care during childhood is crucial for preventing potential issues later in life. Children's feet are still developing, making them more susceptible to deformities and other conditions if not properly supported. Kids’ orthotic insoles play a significant role in ensuring that children’s feet develop correctly, promoting overall foot health and preventing future problems.

Why Foot Care is Critical for Children

Children's feet undergo rapid growth and changes, with the most critical development occurring before age seven. During this period, the bones in their feet are still forming and improper footwear or lack of support can lead to misalignment, discomfort and long-term issues such as flat feet, overpronation and other biomechanical problems.

Proper foot care ensures that children maintain the correct posture and alignment preventing issues such as:

• Flat Feet: A condition where the arches of the feet do not develop properly - leading to foot pain and issues with gait.
• Overpronation: Excessive inward rolling of the foot while walking or running - causing strain on the feet and legs.
• Heel Pain: Often caused by conditions such as plantar fasciitis or Sever's disease - which can significantly affect a child’s ability to participate in physical activities.

How the NHS Can Help?

In the UK, the National Health Service (NHS) provides valuable resources and services to help manage foot health in children. Here are some ways the NHS can assist:

• Podiatry Services: The NHS offers podiatry services where specialists can assess and diagnose foot problems in children. They provide advice on kids footwear and if necessary, prescribe custom orthotic insoles.

• Referral Systems: General Practitioners (GPs) can refer children to podiatrists or orthotists for further assessment and treatment. This ensures that any foot problems are addressed early, preventing more serious issues in the future.

• Access to Orthotic Devices: The NHS can provide access to a range of orthotic devices, including insoles, to support and correct foot alignment. These are often custom-made based on the child’s specific needs.

• Educational Resources: The NHS provides educational resources for parents and caregivers on the importance of foot health, proper footwear and how to look out for signs of foot problems in children.
   

Different Options Available for Kids’ Orthotic Insoles
When it comes to choosing orthotic insoles for children, there are several options available, each designed to meet specific needs. Here are some common types:

• Custom Orthotic Insoles: These are made specifically for an individual child based on a detailed assessment of their foot structure and biomechanics. Custom orthotics offer the highest level of support and correction, ideal for children with specific or severe foot issues.
• Prefabricated Insoles: These are ready-made insoles that come in various sizes and designs. While not tailored to an individual, they still provide a good level of support and are suitable for common foot problems.
• Semi-Custom Insoles: These insoles offer a middle ground between custom and prefabricated options. They can be adjusted or modified to better fit a child’s foot, providing more targeted support than standard prefabricated insoles.
• Specialised Insoles: Designed for specific conditions, such as flat feet or overpronation, these insoles provide targeted support to address particular issues.