Medically Reviewed by Dr. Rachel N. Verville
March 13, 2017
Shoe shopping for kids is always an adventure. When they’re younger, they beg for shoes featuring favorite cartoon characters or those that light up while they walk. As they get older, it’s more about what’s “cool” and what all the other kids are wearing. However, no matter the age, it’s almost guaranteed that no child is thinking about how a specific shoe will impact their foot health in the present or future.
As a parent in Frisco, you have to find that delicate balance between what your child wants, and what you know is good for their overall health. Your child’s individual needs will depend on whether or not their foot doctor has diagnosed them with a specific condition. If your son or daughter suffers from a condition like flat feet, or has heel pain, speak with their foot doctor about which stores in the Frisco area may sell orthotics or certain types of shoes that could help their pain.
If your child doesn’t currently suffer from any known foot or ankle conditions, there are a few things you can look for when choosing shoes that may help keep your child healthy.
What to Think About When Buying Shoes for Kids
It’s not as hard as you think to compromise with your children while shoe shopping in Frisco. Here are a few things you need to keep in mind or look out for when trying to choose footwear that will make your son or daughter and their foot doctor happy.
- Measure your child’s foot. You may think you know your son or daughter’s shoe size—after all, you just bought them some sandals a few months ago. The truth is that kids’ feet grow very, very quickly and you should always measure them before buying new shoes.
- Bring your child with you. This tip goes hand-in-hand with having your child’s feet measured. You don’t want to run into a store on your lunch break and grab a pair of shoes you assume will fit your kid. Yes, sometimes it’s easier to go shopping without your child, but they need to be there to get the best fit possible.
- Twist and bend the shoe. It can be hard to tell how supportive a shoe will actually be, but there are a few ways you can test a pair out. Press on both sides of the very back of the shoe—it shouldn’t collapse in. To check toe flexibility, bend the toe box of the shoe. It shouldn’t bend too much, or be too stiff. And finally, you want a shoe with a rigid middle. Try to twist the shoe—if it twists in the middle, put it back.
Why Shoes Are So Important
You want your child to wear shoes that fit properly and support their growing feet. Bad footwear can cause a host of issues, like heel pain, ingrown toenails, corns, calluses, and other painful conditions.
If you’re concerned your child may be suffering from a foot condition, or just want to make sure their feet are healthy, a foot doctor can help. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Verville at RNV Podiatry in Frisco today by calling (214) 385-8822.
