Children’s feet are a fundamental part of their correct development. It is important to take special care, observe their evolution and visit specialists in order to avoid any possible problems in the future.
Although children’s feet are in constant growth and formation, it is important to be attentive to any change. This is because, when we detect a problem in time, the treatment is simpler, facilitating the correction of the alteration that has occurred.
How should we choose the footwear?
Depending on the age of the child, we should choose one type of shoe or another:
- Crawling: at this stage, we should choose footwear that protects both the toes and the heel against possible blows. The toe cap should be reinforced to facilitate propulsion when crawling. Likewise, the sole should be flexible so that the child can explore the environment with his feet. Finally, it is also advisable to go barefoot, as this will help stimulate their sensory development.
- Up to the age of 3 years: fit the right footwear, allowing the foot to grow rapidly while providing stability. The sole should allow flexion and dorsiflexion of the front part of the foot. To prevent the shoe from digging in when crawling, the back of the shoe should have a low heel counter.
- Between 3 and 7 years of age: the sole should be rubber or non-slip and the heel height should be between 5 and 10 mm. On the other hand, the space between the toe and toe of the shoe should be between 10 and 15 mm. An easy closure, such as Velcro, is recommended.
- Between 7 and 14 years old: rigid toe cap to protect the toes, since this is a period of high physical activity. Flexible, breathable footwear with abrasion-resistant properties and cushioning.
Is flat feet normal in children?
Flexible flat feet are absolutely normal until the child reaches 3 years of age.
Adults have the plantar arch, but younger children have the deposit of adipose tissue (a concentration of fat), resulting in a flat and elastic skin.
What to do if a child has very sweaty feet?
This problem occurs in 1 in 4 children. In mild cases, it is possible to control sweating with remedies such as talcum powder or some anti-sweat creams.
Sweating insoles are also useful to regulate perspiration, but in any case proper foot hygiene is essential, as well as regular airing of shoes and insoles. It is also advisable not to wear tight shoes or shoes made of synthetic material.
When is a footprint study recommended?
From the age of four or five years it is advisable to perform a biomechanical study, in order to learn more about the evolution of the child’s feet, provided that no alterations have been previously detected.
This study offers a functional and structural diagnosis of the locomotor apparatus, as well as of the child’s gait. Through this evolution we can analyze the anatomical, articular and muscular state, as well as the alignment of the knees, type of foot and tread. We can also observe how the spine and pelvis are arranged.
Does posture influence foot development?
It is important to pay attention to the sitting posture or sleeping position of the child, as this will help to correct bad habits at an early stage.
For example, it is recommended to sleep on the side since sleeping on the stomach causes the feet to be in external or internal rotation, and this rotation is transferred when the child walks.
Recycling shoes: yes or no?
It is common for children with older siblings to recycle some of their shoes, but the reality is that it is not recommended, even if they are “practically new”. This is because they surely retain the shape and imprint of the sibling, as well as the possible deformities that the little one could end up inheriting.
In short, it should not be done, since no two feet are alike and the child’s foot development could be altered, as well as having discomfort or injuries.
When should a specialist be consulted?
The specialist in Podiatry will help to diagnose, know and treat any possible alteration in the feet.
If any structural or functional problem is observed, it is important to see a specialist for evaluation and, if necessary, treatment. In any case, it is important to perform a first examination at two years of age, followed by one at four years of age, with check-ups every 6 months.