Parents go on a shopping spree as the first day of school nears. New supplies are essential for children, including backpacks, notebooks and clothing. When it comes to shoes fashion shouldn’t be a priority.
Poorly fitting shoes can lead to problems like heel pain, plantar fasciitis, and other foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis. Proper footwear can cause other common foot problems such as tendonitis or sprains.
“The importance of proper-fitting shoes at an early age is critical for growing bodies,”Ross Taubman (Podiatric Medical Association) president. “Simple foot injuries can inhibit a child’s daily functions and growth, potentially affecting them for the rest of their lives.”
How can parents assess a shoe’s fit and comfort? These are the top tips from the APMA for back-to school shoppers:
Measure your child’s feet. The feet of children grow quickly and unevenly so make sure to measure each one before your child begins trying on shoes. The feet swell over the course of the day. Measure your child’s foot in the afternoon or evening. While measuring their feet, your child should stand. Shoes should always be sized to the height of your child’s feet. Never purchase shoes that are more than one size larger.
– Verify the fit. Check the fit of your child’s shoes. Standing might be too comfortable for a child, so let them walk slowly around the store making sure the shoes don’t slip.
Safety is important. Although Mary Janes may look adorable on your little girl, even tiny heels can make it difficult for her to walk properly and interfere with foot growth. Comfortable shoes are essential. Shoes should be comfortable. “breaking in.”Consider shoes that have tread on the soles to help with slipping. Children’s feet are kept dry by using breathable materials like canvas. Shoes should have a stiff material for the heel cushioning as well as a built in arch.
– Check the shoe. High-top sneakers and boots are better for small ankles to prevent twists and sprains. For a good test of function, you can flex the shoe with your hands. The shoe’s ball should be bent, not its middle.
Visit this site for more information on back-to school-shoe shopping, and to see children’s shoes that have been approved by the APMA. www.apma.org.
