How to Get Your Kids the Right Back to School Shoes
It always seems like kids are outgrowing their shoes. So we know how tempting it can be to shop online using platforms like Zappos. (Free shipping and delivery? How you can you resist?!)
Well, here’s one reason to skip online back-to-school shoe shopping. According to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, getting the right fit for children’s shoes is key to preventing foot problems. And the best fittings happen in stores, with professional help.
Ready to hit your local shoe store? That’s great. But check out these additional fitting tips before you go, so your child will rock back to school ready for recess and gym while being free from bothersome foot pain.
Watch for Signs of Wear
Even if your child hasn’t outgrown his or her shoes, it still might be time for a new pair. After all, kids play hard. So, over time, the cushioning and arch support of shoes wears down. And that could leave your child dealing with heel pain after a day of play. Your child’s risk for tendonitis, sprains and fractures even goes up when shoes lose their shock absorption.
How can you spot a worn-out shoe? A supportive shoe shouldn’t bend in the mid-sole area. (But it can be flexible in the toe area.) And, if your child’s shoe is sporting any kind of damage around the edges of the sole, it’s ready for replacing.
Find the Fit
Once you’re in the shoe store, have a professional measure your child’s feet. (If left and right are different lengths, fit the shoe to the larger foot.) Even once you know the right shoe size, you must remember that different brands create different size fits.
To make sure your child walks comfortably, his or her shoes should leave about a finger’s width of room between the shoe edge and your child’s big toe. While it’s tempting to leave extra room, that’s a bad idea. Your child’s feet will slide around in roomy shoes. And that can lead to toe injury and a higher risk of ingrown toenails.
Consider Unique Conditions
If your child has flat feet, you may need extra help to find the perfect back-to-school shoe. Because flat feet tend to spread wide, styles with roomy toe boxes may fit best. Plenty of arch support will help your child avoid foot pain. And, in some cases, you may need orthotics to help your child walk comfortably.
Need more help supporting your child’s growing foot? Dr. David Sullivan, your Westfield pediatric podiatrist, is here to help. Reach out to our office and request a children’s appointment. We’ll make sure your child’s shoes—and every other part of his or her routine—is helping prevent pain and complications!