If your child fatigues easily when walking/running, complains of foot, ankle or leg pain or has worn through shoes quickly, it could be because of their shoes not fitting correctly, or not providing enough support for their growing feet. When shopping for kids’ shoes, the goal should be to find a supportive, properly fitting shoe that promotes normal foot development. The shoe should be well ventilated and unlike the saying “shoes have to be broken in,” the shoes should not cause pain or fatigue, but rather provide the support the foot needs, while still being comfortable to wear.

Here are some key considerations when selecting a shoe:

1. Fit is Everything: A well-fitted shoe is crucial for your child’s foot health. An ill-fitting shoe can cause pain, discomfort, or blisters and can contribute to long-term foot issues, such as bunions, hammer toes, or other foot deformities. Measure your child’s feet continuously because they grow quickly! Always measure both feet and go with the larger foot size. There should be about a thumb’s width of space between the longest toe (which may not be the big toe) and the end of the shoe. The shoe should grip the heel, without slipping or causing pressure. The width of the shoe is just as important as the length. The shoe should not be stretched too tightly across the foot, but not too loose either, measure this at the widest part of the foot (usually the ball of the foot).
2. Consider the Shoe’s Construction: The construction of the shoe will play a key role in how the shoe functions, or doesn’t. The heel of the shoe should not collapse when you press on both sides. A firm heel counter helps to stabilize the foot and prevent excessive movement. A good shoe should be made with comfortable materials. Materials that allow air circulation will help to keep the feet dry and comfortable. The toe box of the shoe should not be too stiff or too malleable. A good shoe should bend at the ball of the foot, so it can move with the natural movement of the foot. Shoes with round and roomy toe boxes are ideal, your child should be able to wiggle their toes, without sliding around in the shoe. This will prevent blisters, bunions, and other toe deformities from developing. Test the flexibility of the shoe by bending it, if the shoe does not bend where the toes bend, then it is too stiff and can cause pain when walking, but if it folds in half completely at the arch, it will not provide the support that growing feet need. A rigid middle is important – ensure that the shoe does not twist in the middle. Having arch support can prevent strain and fatigue, and cushioning can help provide shock absorption to protect growing feet and joints from impact. Thin soled shoes can also be easily punctured, and they do not protect feet from the hot pavement or cold weather, which is a major concern when it comes to outdoor fun!
3. Durability: Kids are tough on shoes, so durability is a key factor. Consider things like reinforced stitching, and durable materials that can withstand the wear and tear of daily activities. Non-slip, durable outsoles can also provide more traction and longevity.
4. Ease of Use: For young children, shoes that are easy to put on and take off are a must. Velcro closures are convenient and help children develop independence. Alternatives that are available now are elastic/silicone stretch laces, bungee cord laces or BOA closure systems (the twist dial).
5. Style: While function is key, your child will only wear them if they like them, and they match their style. Involve them in the selection process to find the perfect pair that they are excited to wear.

Come See Us! 

If your child complains about foot, ankle or leg pain, or you notice unusual wear patterns on their shoes, it might be time to consult a BioPed clinician. They can assess whether your child might benefit from custom orthotics or other interventions. They can also help you and your child pick out the perfect pair of shoes that marry style with function and durability. At BioPed, we are committed to helping you and your family Do More. If you have any concerns about your child’s foot health,  BioPed clinicians are here to help. Visit us for professional shoe fittings and personalized advice to ensure that your child steps into the new school year with confidence and comfort. Finding the right shoe can set the stage for a successful school year, allowing your child to focus on learning, playing, and doing more of the things they love.

The post ‘Back to School’ means new shoes for your child, but what should you look for? appeared first on Relieve Foot Pain & Leg Pain.

Fall is a great time to get outside and go for a run on your favourite trail. Getting out into the fresh air and feeling the leaves under your feet can revitalize your body, mind, and soul. Running trails is tough on your feet, whether you’re a recreational runner or you’re preparing for the next big race. You’re running on uneven, slippery, wet ground. Avoid injury or pain by taking care of your feet before, during, and after you run.

Let’s take a look at what trail runners may experience in terms of foot pain and injuries, and what BioPed can do about them!

A few common injuries with trail running

Plantar fasciitis and heel pain

Plantar fasciitis occurs when there is swelling or inflammation on the planter fascia. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs from the bottom of your heel to your toes. Usually, we see this occur when there has been a rapid increase in activity or when moving without proper support. As you start to run more and more you are at risk of developing plantar fascia and heel pain due to the increased pressure you are putting through these areas. Having your feet properly supported and taking things slow is essential.

Metatarsalgia

This condition can be described easiest as pain in your forefoot. Usually this presents with swelling (inflammation) and redness after prolonged activity or acute injury. With trail running numerous factors play a role in causing metatarsalgia; footwear, support, running surfaces etc.

Ankle sprains

This condition can be described easiest as pain in your forefoot. Usually this presents with swelling (inflammation) and redness after prolonged activity or acute injury. With trail running numerous factors play a role in causing metatarsalgia; footwear, support, running surfaces etc.

Achilles tendonitis 

Achilles tendonitis is an Achilles tendon over use injury, that is most often characterized as pain at the back of the heel (where the Achilles inserts into the heel). When you combine tightness in the calf and a sudden increase in activity there is a potential for Achilles tendonitis to occur due to the increased pressure through the area.
Note: Many other issues can occur, we just listed a few common ones!

What can BioPed help you with?

Shoes! 

Footwear can be tricky but at BioPed we can make it simple. With footwear for trail running, fit and function is key. You always want to look for a shoe with the following (barring any other medical implications):

Extra space in the toe box. Typically, we say a finger nails width to allow room for your foot to expand, anything more and you risk slipping inside. With trail running that might mean losing toe nails especially as your routes get hillier and terrain gets rougher!

Stiff heel counter and rigid through the sole. These key points help to make the shoe a stronger base for your foot, especially if there are any abnormalities with your gait and become even more important as terrain gets more rugged.

High traction outsole. Think Vibram. Any shoe that has aggressive lugs on the bottom to allow for gripping mud and dirt is huge with running on the trails. Nobody likes slipping and always should be something you look for in a shoe.

Here is a couple of our core options to look for in-store:

Saucony men’s excursion TR15

Custom foot orthotics

If you’re suffering from foot pain while running, orthotics can be a fantastic solution. Depending on what is occurring biomechanically with your feet, ankles and knees orthotics aim to control/support the lower limb. Controlling the lower limb and guiding it through gait efficiently is important at keeping pain away especially while you are doing the activities you love Our onsite labs make the process quick and efficient so we can get you back up on your feet and doing more quickly.

Best bet is to get into see our BioPed Canadian Certified Pedorthists and we will perform an assessment. Here we will perform a comprehensive gait analysis and go through all of the different treatment options we can provide depending on what is happing while you’re moving

There is so much more we can offer too; Bracing, Compressions, Stretching programs etc! Contact us today and your nearest BioPed Canadian Certified Pedorthist can help you out!

If you’re suffering from lower limb pain that limits you from doing what you love, please book an appointment today! At BioPed Footcare, whether it’s bracing, orthotics or footwear – we are here help you. Meet with one of BioPed’s lower limb clinicians to see how we can keep your feet and legs healthy!

The post Common Injuries from Trail Running and how BioPed can Help! appeared first on Relieve Foot Pain & Leg Pain.