An Ever-Growing Collection of Simple Home Remedies

How to Buy Shoes for Kids

Careful Back-To-School Shopping Prevents Foot Problems

Kids can experience problems during the school year from poorly
fitting shoes, including blisters, ingrown toenails, poor
performance in sports and distraction from classroom work.
The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS)
offers the following tips for getting the proper fit in shoes:

First, examine the shoe itself. A shoe should have a firm heel
counter (stiff material on either side of the heel), adequate
cushioning of the insole, and a built-in arch. It should be
flexible enough to bend where the foot bends-at the ball of
the foot, not the middle of the shoe.

There should be about one-half inch of space (or a thumb's
width) between the tip of the toes and the end of the shoe.
Feel the inside of the shoe for any staples or irregularities in
the glue that could cause irritation. Examine where the inside
stitching hits the foot. Look for signs of irritation or pressure
points on the foot after the shoe is worn and have shoes
stretched or modified by a certified pedorthist.

Shoes should not slip off at the heels.

Shoes should be chosen that fit the larger foot best.

Certain footwear styles, such as trendy platform shoes, don't
allow for proper foot function and stability. Wearing high
heels at any age can cause ankle sprains, pain in the ball of
the foot and other problems.

Shoes should be replaced if they become too tight or the
heels wear down. Shoes that wear out too quickly or
unevenly may indicate that a standing or walking problem
exists and should not be ignored. In certain cases orthotic
inserts can help.

Parents who have concerns about their child's feet should see
a health care professional with a focus on preventative care
for the feet such as podiatrist. Pedorthists are trained in foot
anatomy and construction of shoes and foot orthotic devices.

This Information was brought to you courtesy of Happy Feet Plus.
http://www.happyfeet.com

Kids Shoe Connection