Parents often worry about their kids, particularly their pudgy feet, to ensure they grow healthy and strong.
Except in cases of pathological flat feet caused by excess weight or other conditions (like polio), kids do not typically require kids shoes arch support to help their development correctly.
What is Arch Support?
Kids shoes arch support is a shoe insert designed to distribute weight evenly across both feet, absorb shock while walking or running, and cushion the arch area. You’ll often find arch supports in custom orthotics created by podiatrists or in sneakers explicitly designed with this in mind.
Proper foot arch support fosters healthy foot development, prevents arch collapse, lowers the risk of overuse injuries, enhances stability and balance while walking or running, and relieves pain in feet, legs and backs.
Kids shoes with adequate arch support help children walk, run and play more confidently. They help prevent blisters and plantar fasciitis – which causes heel pain – and fatigue or discomfort for extended wear periods. Breathable materials allow the feet to breathe naturally, emulating the natural experience of going barefoot.
Do Kids Need Arch Support in Their Shoes?
Foot pain in kids is often misinterpreted as “growing pains,” when in reality, it may be caused by improperly fitted or inadequately supported footwear. Kids’ feet naturally feature an arched shape; however, this won’t become fully visible until age 6, when their arches fully develop.
Footwear should be constructed from breathable materials to promote healthy foot conditions and avoid restricting or binding the foot. Furthermore, it should feature soles that replicate barefoot conditions to help strengthen feet naturally.
Arch Support Cookies
Orthotic insoles may be beneficial; however, most scientific research on them relates to adult patients already suffering from injured feet and arches – making them less attractive options for kids.
An economical option is this “cookie” arch pad, which fits easily into children’s shoes and has proven invaluable in protecting young feet and legs from discomfort. Many parents have used these pads successfully.
These pads are constructed from medical grade poron, which is highly durable and will not flatten out like other arch support forms. Plus, their adhesive backing makes positioning them effortless; place them wherever is most comfortable – these arch cookies are meant for low to medium arches, not intended to heal medical injuries or replace custom orthotics.
Are Any Other Shoe Choices Available?
If your kid has flat feet, there are various treatments you can try to help alleviate their foot pain. One such kids shoes arch support solution is providing them with shoes with appropriate arch support or encouraging stretching and strengthening exercises to strengthen them further. Helping them shed those extra pounds could provide much-needed relief if their issues stem from excess weight gain.
Memo-polo sneakers are tailored to accommodate children with flat feet, featuring built-in high arch support. Infection-prevention insoles and durable materials that withstand daily wear and tear make these sneakers perfect for active kids. Furthermore, being produced locally in Europe means no toxic chemicals were used during production, while its interior lining also features a breathable material to keep feet cool and comfortable.
When it comes to selecting the best shoes for your child’s feet, it is important to choose a shoe that is both comfortable and will encourage healthy foot development. Shoes that are too tight will restrict proper foot and toe movement, while shoes with rigid soles can limit the flexibility of your child’s feet. Choosing a shoe that is well made with quality materials and a breathable design will help ensure your child’s feet stay healthy while playing.