This week’s contributor is Naomi Williams, Podiatrist, B App Sc (Pod), Hons M A Pod A Freeman Podiatry and Biomechanics, Wollongong.
With the beginning of the school year upon us, here is some information to help.
Children’s feet grow rapidly, with approximately 9mm of growth per year from the age of 5 up until 12 – 14 years. Due to this constant change in length and width it is important that your child’s footwear is fitted by a specialist in children’s footwear.
When fitting footwear, the child’s foot should first be measured to determine their correct width and length. Many children’s footwear styles, especially school shoes, come in different widths to help create a more natural and perfect fit.
There should be approximately 10mm of growing space at the end of the shoe. This is most often determined by the child having a ‘thumbnail length’ of space. Make sure this length of space is from the child’s longest toe, as the second toe in some instances is longer than the first. Children may also have one foot slightly longer than the other, so again make sure the 10mm of growing space is on the longest foot.
To get the most out of a child’s shoe, some companies make a thick and thin insole for the shoe. Beginning with the thick insole, as the child’s foot grows and needs more space, in the shoe the insole can be changed to create more space. Perform a size check at least every six months once the child is at school age.
The child should also have adequate space around their toes to move freely, without compression from the top of the shoe. Do not allow too much space as this is likely to make the child trip.
Shoes should also fit well around the heel area. Some shoes have extra padding in this area to help fitting with children who have narrow heels. Make sure the child is not slipping out of the shoe when they are walking; if they are the heel space is too big. Some lacing techniques may help with support around the heel and ankle area.
Fitting shoes correctly for children is a long and tiring process for both parent and child, but is the best thing for the child in the long run!
Disclaimer:
Although the information contained in WollongongOnline website is continually updated, Naomi Williams makes no guarantee, nor does she assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information. Material contained in this article relates to matters of foot health.
No information contained in this website should be used to influence decisions regarding prevention, diagnosis, treatment or rehabilitation without first consulting with a podiatrist or other health professional. Material is presented here for general public discussion only and a trained professional should deal with any specific problems.
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