A baby’s feet develop best when they have room to move. Before a baby begins walking outdoors, shoes are unnecessary. In fact, bare feet allow the toes to bend and help foot muscles grow stronger on safe indoor surfaces. Socks provide warmth, but they should not squeeze the toes. Once a child starts walking outdoors, shoes protect the feet from rough ground, sharp objects, and hot surfaces. A toddler’s first pair should be light, flexible, and shaped like the child’s foot. A firm heel area can provide stability without making the shoe stiff.
Proper fit is important because babies and toddlers cannot always explain discomfort. There should be about a finger’s width of space between the longest toe and the shoe’s front. The toe box should let the toes spread without rubbing. Shoes should fit securely at the heel without pinching or slipping. Choose a flexible, non-skid sole that bends near the ball of the foot. Fasteners should keep the shoe in place during play. Parents should check the fit monthly because young feet grow quickly. Red marks, blisters, or changes in walking can signal that the shoes are too tight. Secondhand shoes can be a poor choice because they may already be shaped to another child’s foot.
Podiatric care is helpful when a child frequently trips, avoids walking, or appears to have foot pain. A podiatrist can examine a child’s feet and watch how the child stands and walks. This can identify any problems with balance, foot position, or movement. The podiatrist also can measure both feet and explain which shoe shape offers enough space and support. Some toddlers have one foot that is larger, so shoes should fit the larger foot. An exam can determine whether unusual wear patterns relate to the shoes or foot development. For guidance on proper footwear for an active toddler, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you to choose the right shoes for your child.
The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Parkwood Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
- Make sure their shoes fit properly
- Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
- Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
- Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
- Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
- Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
- Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
- Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Brunswick and Hinesville, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
