The Tribune

As we wind down to the opening of the school year, many parents are busy selecting footwear for their children. I find it necessary to address this topic as many children experience foot problems due to improper footwear. Parents can worry about their child’s teeth and eyes, but often do not give any attention to the developing foot. Many adult foot problems have their origins in childhood, so attention to footwear in children can minimize these problems in adults.

Buy children’s shoes that fit: it is not unusual for a parent or grandparent to purchase shoes for a child without the child present. A child’s shoe should be directly fitted to the foot in the store. Traditionally, it was standard to buy shoes for children that were two sizes too big to cut down on cost. It is good to buy kids footwear a little larger to leave room to grow, but anything more than one size bigger is too big.

Proper fit: when considering size, the length and width of the shoe must be considered. The width of the shoe is extremely important, especially if the child has wide feet. Do not purchase shoes more than one size larger even if you are experiencing difficulties finding the right width, seek the help of a specialty store where adjustments can be done to support the width of the child’s feet. Shoes that are too big can cause heel slipping and a child can trip when walking. Further, toes can slide forward and be very uncomfortable resulting with sore toes. Likewise, shoes that are too tight or small will cause sore feet, ingrown toenails and other foot problems.

Comfort: Children’s shoes should be comfortable immediately, while in the store and not be expected to be “broken in” or “stretched” later. If the shoe does not appear to have enough support, there are specialty stores that can add proper inserts not only to support the foot, but also to help wick away moisture. Moisture management prevents fungus, odours and athlete’s foot from developing.

Inspect children’s shoes regularly: even after a child’s footwear is purchased they need to be checked regularly for wear and tear around the soles and for proper cushioning and arch support. Children tend to adapt to what they regard as normal and accept it. This is why skilled shoe fitters/specialist and regular checks are important, particularly with young children.

Socks: the sock should fit and be the same size as the shoe. One hundred per cent cotton is best, especially if the child has skin problems. Most cotton socks contain a small percentage of nylon. A fifty percent wool with fifty percent mix is also very good. Avoid one hundred percent nylon socks as they will make the foot sweat and do not absorb moisture.

In conclusion, poorly fitted children’s shoes can cause a number of problems in adults. Therefore, it is logical to attempt to prevent these problems by ensuring that the child’s shoe is fitted appropriately.

• Bernadette D. Gibson, a board certified and licensed pedorthist, is the proprietor of Foot Solutions, a health and wellness franchise that focuses on foot care and proper shoe fit. The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Foot Solutions Incorporated or any of its subsidiary and/or affiliated companies. Please direct any questions or comments to nassau@footsolutions.com.