You may have already noticed some reasons that suggest it’s time to see a foot doctor. For example, your normally energetic child complains that their legs feel tired all the time, especially after playing. Their shoes wear unevenly, or when they walk, their feet turn inward.
At Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle in Meridian and Caldwell, our Idaho podiatrists understand how concerning these signs can be for parents. We regularly help families identify and treat pediatric foot problems that affect a child's activity level and mobility. Let's explore how custom orthotics can support proper foot development and when they might be right for your child.
Common Signs Your Child May Need Custom Orthotics
Children’s feet experience growth spurts at different ages. Research indicates that on average, the highest growth rate occurs between infancy and age 5, increasing about a half size every few months. Between ages 5 and 14, many children’s shoe sizes change at least once—sometimes twice!—annually, and some boys’ feet may continue to grow even into their older teen years.
So it’s important to take note of certain symptoms, such as:
- Frequent complaints of pain. Much of the time, kids don’t understand what “normal” is regarding their feet. So if they regularly mention foot, ankle, leg, or heel pain during normal activities, it could signal alignment issues that orthotics can address. This is especially concerning if the pain interferes with sports or playground activities.
- Unusual walking patterns. If your child walks with their toes pointing inward—also known as in-toeing or pigeon toe—or outward—often referred to as out-toeing or duck feet—trips frequently, or seems unsteady, custom orthotics may help correct these gait abnormalities.
- Visible foot problems. Children with flat feet, high arches, or who walk predominantly on their toes might benefit from orthotic support to promote proper foot development and prevent future issues.
The Science Behind Pediatric Custom Orthotics
During childhood, feet undergo dramatic changes as bones fuse, muscles strengthen, and walking patterns develop. This critical growth period provides an ideal window for addressing foot problems that could otherwise become permanent.
At Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle, we design orthotics that adapt to your child's changing needs, providing targeted support exactly where it's needed most. This personalized approach helps ensure that growing feet develop properly while allowing natural movement and flexibility.
Supporting Natural Development
Unlike over-the-counter inserts, custom orthotics are precisely crafted to match your child's unique foot structure and gait pattern. This method guides proper development during crucial growth periods.
Preventing Future Problems
Early intervention with custom orthotics provides stability and support while young bones and muscles are still forming. The goal is to avoid the development of more serious foot problems later in life.
Improving Athletic Performance
For active children involved in sports, custom orthotics enhance stability, reduce fatigue, and minimize the risk of overuse injuries that often occur during athletic activities.
How Our Idaho Podiatrists Support Your Child’s Active Future
It’s never too early to schedule an examination with a podiatrist for your child. Similar to other health care providers, the medical specialists at Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle look forward to encouraging your family’s wellness every step of the way.
We provide comprehensive care for children’s foot needs and help parents understand various pediatric concerns. Our teams in Meridian and Caldwell partner with you to assess your child’s development and, if orthotic therapy is beneficial to their treatment, we offer individualized orthotic solutions, ensuring they receive the proper level of support at the right time.
Many parents worry that starting custom orthotics early means their child will need them forever. However, this isn't typically the case. These precision medical devices aren’t simply inserts—they can positively shape your child's foot health, serving as a tool to remedy a problem, much like wearing braces helps straighten teeth. Our Idaho podiatrists take pride in helping children overcome foot challenges and build a strong foundation for an active lifestyle.
