As parents, ensuring the well-being of your children is a top priority, and this extends to their footwear. Selecting the right shoes for your child goes beyond fashion considerations. It is more about promoting the child's comfort, development, and overall health. This can begin with prioritizing the fit. Children's feet are continually growing and developing, so it is helpful to choose shoes that provide enough room for their toes to wiggle and grow. Measure their feet regularly to ensure a proper fit. Support is another critical factor. Look for shoes with good arch support and cushioning to absorb shock during play and daily activities. Sturdy soles with good traction can help to prevent slips and falls. Air circulation is essential, as your child's feet can sweat quite a bit. Choose shoes made from breathable materials to reduce the risk of fungal infections. Lastly, involve your child in the selection process. Let them try on shoes and assess comfort. This empowers them and ensures that they are more likely to wear the shoes you buy. By keeping these factors in mind, you can make informed choices when shopping for your child's shoes, promoting their comfort, health, and happy feet. If you would like additional information about what type of shoes to buy for your child, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist. 

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Philip K. Schrumpf, DPM of Active Feet Clinic. Our doctor 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 office located in Missoula, MT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.