Footwear for children

Question 1

How fast do children’s foot size change?

Answer 1

<18mo 1/2 size q2m
Toddler 1/2 size q3m
till 3yo 1 size q8m
>3yo 1 size q1y

Question 2

What is the purpose of footwear?

Answer 2

Protect child’s feet

Offer some grip on a smooth surface

Comfortable walking on different surfaces

Question 3

What are the recommendations re: pre-walkers and footwear?

Answer 3

Shoes are not needed

Question 4

What is the findings suggest a proper shoe fit?

Answer 4

Fit snugly at the heel to prevent forward movement while walking
1.25cm between the longest toe and tip of the shoe
All shoes and sandals should have a 5mm space between footwear rim and ties

Question 5

When are flat foot common?

Answer 5

All children <18mo

Flexble flat fet common <6yo

Question 6

What is the treatment for flat foot?

Answer 6

Spontaneous improvement with age

Question 7

What is the treatment for simple metatarsus adductus?

Answer 7

Passive stretching exercises
Splints or cases might be required for rigid deformity
Avoid W-sitting as might exacerbate torsional deformity

Question 8

What is the treatment for intoeing with tibial torsion?

Answer 8

Referral to pediatric orthopedic surgeon is functional impairment (?gait plates)

Question 9

When should bowlegs and knock-knees be treated?

Answer 9

> 8yo and functional impairment refer to pediatric orthopedic surgeon

Question 10

What are the CPS recommendations re: footwear?

Answer 10

1. Infants do not need shoes until they are walking
2. Shoes are necessary for protection. They should be well fitting, soft, light weight, and have cushioned soles.
3. Orthotics are not beneficial in the management of physiological flexible flatfoot, developmental intoeing, and mild torsional deformities.
4. Orthopaedic referral is necessary when a child experiences functional disability or pain in association with foot or lower leg abnormalities