Insoles in our shoes are almost required for those of us who have logged a lot of kilometers over the years. Insoles are the only thing that allows us to walk all day after decades of walking on our feet, working on our feet, and hurting our feet.

 

But consider this: when we were kids, we didn’t have insoles. Which probably begs the question, do kids require insoles?

 

THE ESSENTIALS —

Many individuals use arch support insoles to alleviate foot pain, increase athletic performance, or make their footwear more comfortable. But, do youngsters require insoles as well?

Untreated foot abnormalities in children can persist into adolescence and interfere with spinal function and biomechanics, producing difficulties with the knees, hips, and spine.

If your child suffers from back discomfort, foot difficulties, or participates in sports such as soccer, baseball, or basketball, they may benefit from wearing insoles for kids.

Men’s size 4/women’s size 5 IDEASTEP insoles are available. If you wish to make your child’s footwear more comfortable, we recommend Ramble Insoles. Pace Insoles can help if your child suffers plantar fasciitis or other foot problems. Alternatively, if your child is an athlete looking for a competitive advantage, check out our Dash Insoles.

 

 

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW —

When Do Children Get Foot Arches?

In young toddlers, permanently flat feet are uncommon. Most children do not develop foot arches until they are well over two years old. Their arches are still growing between the ages of two and six. Some children do not develop arches until they are eight years old; nevertheless, if your child does not exhibit any signs of arches by the age of six, you should seek medical advice.

 

According to Chiropractic Economics, as children develop into adolescents, childhood foot problems can interfere with spinal function, resulting in poor biomechanics and degenerative changes in the knees, hips, and spine. Addressing these concerns when they arise will help to ensure that your child’s development is not jeopardized in the long run.

 

In fact, Joseph D’Amico, DPM emphasizes the fact that delivering orthotics to children has a significant developmental potential. “The sooner treatment begins in the youngster, the better the outcome.” He went on to say that “bone growth and alignment may be positively influenced to affect structural as well as positional modifications feasible in the adult.”

 

While a lack of full arches isn’t usually a cause for concern in most children, it is something to keep an eye on.

 

The following are signs that your child may have flat feet:

 

Pronation is a condition in which your child walks on the inner of his feet rather than the soles. It will be seen from behind you.

Foot Discomfort – If your youngster complains of foot pain, it’s likely due to falling arches.

Back Discomfort – Back pain can be caused by poor foot control and flat feet. If your child complains of pain, you should take him or her to the doctor.

Why Do Children Need Insoles?

Anyone who has attempted to keep up with purchasing shoes for their child knows that the foot develops quicker than the rest of the body. By the age of seven, it is three-quarters of its full-grown length, and many children are wearing adult sizes by middle school. This is the time when children may develop back and foot pain.

 

Because the shoes your child is wearing often have little to no arch support or cushioning, your child’s legs and back absorb the impact each time their foot touches the ground. Adding arch support insoles to their footwear might make a big difference, especially if your child plays sports.

 

Consider purchasing insoles for your children if:

 

Your child is complaining of back ache.

 

Obviously, your first visit should be a medical practitioner, but putting arch support insoles to your child’s shoes may improve their biomechanics and relieve their aches and pains.

They’re on the go. If your child participates in sports, particularly soccer or track, or spends the summer running around in the woods, a pair of kids’ insoles can assist cushion their feet and legs, preventing joint problems and back pain later in life.

Your youngster has foot issues. Insoles can help your child’s feet develop normally as they grow into tweens and teens. This may avoid odd walking later in life, as well as serious foot disorders caused by improper foot growth early in childhood.

They have been advised by your doctor. If your child’s pediatrician or podiatrist recommends insoles, there’s a reason for them. Insoles are frequently prescribed when the arches are not developing properly or when the doctor notices unusual growth or movement in the foot. A good insole’s comfortable constraint on the foot will maintain it growing well.

Their feet could be a little fresher. Bacteria in the shoe generate foot odor. Anti-microbial insoles can help minimize bacteria in the shoe, keeping athlete’s foot and fungal growth at bay.

What Kinds of Children’s Shoes Require Insoles?

Shoemakers want their footwear to accommodate as many individuals as possible, thus they build their items to be flat, with no arches at all. Your children’s shoes lack the required support (and, in some cases, cushioning) to keep their feet comfy all day.

 

Sneakers – Most children wear sneakers throughout the day. The built-in inserts quickly flatten out. Adding arch support insoles will provide support for their feet while cushioning their heels for shock absorption.

Dress shoes are required if your child wears a school uniform. This is especially true for children attending military institutions, where the shoes are extremely polished and hard. Dress shoes are renowned for lacking adequate cushioning. Insoles can make children’s dress shoes more comfortable and aid in the relief of pain from the foot to the back.

Sport shoes – If your child plays a competitive sport such as soccer or basketball, you want them to have every advantage possible. Adding insoles to children’s athletic shoes can help them improve their biomechanics, extend their stride, and minimize their risk of injury.

Insoles for children’s shoes are an important element of caring for their entire bodies. They rely on their feet to get around, and if they have biomechanical difficulties, early intervention can help them perform better in the long run. Consult your pediatrician about putting insoles for kids in your children’s shoes to help them enjoy a pain-free, active life.