Children will be going back to school soon, and it is important to be aware of certain things while shopping for their new shoes. Children’s feet can grow up to two sizes in six months, so it is important to factor this into your shoe shopping criteria. You should always make sure your child’s foot has wiggle room in the front of their shoes. However, be sure not to buy shoes that are too big for their feet. Another thing you should be cautious of is worn out shoes. It is crucial to get rid of worn out sneakers in your child’s closet. All shoes should have proper cushioning and support for the feet, and worn out shoes tend to lose their shape. Lastly, you should be extra selective when it comes to shopping for a child with flat feet. Children with flat feet need shoes with maximum arch support, a wide toe box, and shock absorption.

Making sure that your children maintain foot health is very important as they grow up. If you have any questions contact one of our podiatrists from Westside Podiatry Center, LLP. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet in childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care from birth to school-age.

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

• Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet
• Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet

• Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus
• Be watchful of any pain or injury
• Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible
• Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Liverpool, Camillus, and Skaneateles, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Keeping Children’s Feet Healthy