24 Seven August 2021

Why would my child need (or not need)
orthotics?
We know that orthotics tend to have a
certain stigma to them. They are for older
people, right? Surely not for kids!
The truth, however, is that children can face
similar needs as adults when it comes to their
foot and ankle health. And when it comes to
correction for an abnormal gait or support for
the arch, forefoot, or heel, custom orthotics
may be the best option.
Each child’s case is different, and it will
take a full examination to determine whether
orthotics should be considered.
As we noted above, symptoms of gait
abnormalities, lack of arches, or pain will at
least initially set orthotics on the table as a
possibility. Additional signs might include
walking only on the toes or heels, consistently
stumbling or tripping over one’s own feet,
or wanting to be carried frequently due to
becoming tired easily.
Another factor that may influence a
diagnosis is family history. Do you or anyone
else in your family experience foot and ankle
problems, especially of a structural variety?
Your child might be predisposed to similar
conditions merely by matter of genetics.
Now, even with many of the above elements
present, orthotics are not immediately
recommended in a great number of cases.
Many children will show abnormal walking
patterns or have flat feet during their
childhood and will outgrow them. All that
is typically needed in these cases is regular
check-ups to make sure the condition is
improving over time. If it is staying static by
a certain age milestone, or becoming worse,
then intervention might be necessary.
In cases where some adjustment or added
support may be necessary, a shoe that is
designed more specifically for feet with those
kinds of needs may suffice in place of an
orthotic.
Long story short? Whether your child needs
orthotics will depend on several factors,
but we will not recommend them unless we
determine they are a viable and necessary
option.
My child needs orthotics. What now?
Let’s get this out of the way first: custom
orthotics are no longer the big, beige, clunky
foot prisons you might have seen in the past.
Most orthotics now come in the form of
From The Story
“Children can
face similar
needs as
adults when
it comes to
their foot and
ankle health.”
inserts that can be placed in your shoes. You
might have seen something similar in the
store—and we might even recommend those
sometimes for basic needs—but they will not
provide the type of individualized control and
support that custom orthotics can.
We have made custom orthotics for many
children, so we are well versed on techniques
that make it a pleasant experience. We use
plaster apparatus to create our molds. They
are effective and, honestly, kind of fun for kids
to stick their feet in!
With a bit of initial commitment, an orthotic
should become a natural fit in your child’s life.
You might find that they might have additional
energy, feel a bit happier, and be more active.
For young patients who already are active,
orthotics in their athletic footwear may
provide less pain and more confidence during
practice and play!
About The Author
ANANT JOSHI, DPM
Anant Joshi, DPM, DABPM, AACFAS, practices
at Advanced Foot Care of New Jersey in Woodland
Park. Dr. Joshi provides extensive podiatry
services including orthotics, foot injuries, and
sports injuries. Additionally, he offers diagnosis
and treatment for ingrown toenails, toenail
fungus, bunions, ankle pain, calluses and more.
To Learn More Visit:
www.footpainnj.com