Posts Tagged ‘Hammer Toes’

Selecting Shoes for Kids

Tuesday, October 27th, 2009

Nevertheless, the adult shoe may be changed from being a protective covering to one of status symbol, the child’s shoes has remained its basic sole-protecting ensemble protecting them from foot hazards outside. Regardless of age, a shoe’s main purpose is to provide a protective covering during cold weather and prevent injury caused by stepping on sharp objects outdoors. However, when kids are just starting to learn how to walk, they need a lot of shoeless time. Inside the house, socks with rubberized soles will provide protection without the risk of falling. But kids at some point have to leave the safety of their house and be able to move outside, without endangering their feet. Hence, whenever parents bought their child a shoes, it is imperative to remember to have their respective feet measured by a pro shoe salesperson as no one wants a shoe to slip while their kids are walking. “Ensure that both feet are measured well while the child is properly standing!” adds Dr. Micheal Goldbearg.That is why we, at Kenneth Cole shoes endeavor to bring you the latest quality, stylish, yet seemingly comfortable footwear at reasonable costs for everyone.

A recent survey of professionals who give advice on children’s feet, including pediatricians, orthopedic surgeons, pediatric orthopedics, and podiatrists, revealed wide divergence of opinion regarding shoes and footwear in both normal and problematic feet. The, what else is a responsible parent left to do? The only rational approach to the subject is to examine some traditional ideas in the light of recent studies and experience, so as to determine if the professional views should be upheld or discarded.

1. Shoes are necessary to promote foot development: In other words normal children’s feet need support, otherwise they will become flat. Recent studies seem to contradict this. Feet deformities like bunions and hammer-toes are very rare among children who wear no shoes, in contrast to those who do, where such deformities are commonly detected.

2. High-top shoes are necessary to support the ankle as the child takes its first steps: Well-meaning but misinformed relatives often perpetrate this myth. Studies have shown that when a child is strong enough to stand up and walk, he will have ankles strong enough to support his body.

3. Sneakers, if worn for more than a couple of hours a day, are bad for children: This is a widely held belief among consumers as well as professionals. There is absolutely no evidence that normal feet develop into flatfeet if tennis shoes rather then hi-top or leather shoes are used.

4. Shoe salesmen are competent to diagnose foot problems and advise remedial shoe war for children: This is totally erroneous. Most shoe salesmen are well known and has the fervent desire to sell you the most comfortable shoes they can find in theor collection. But they are not trained to give advice regarding foot problems. Responsible salesmen should suggest to parents that their child should visit a doctor, in case its feet do not appear right.

5. The price of shoes: The cost of shoes is often related to the type of material and quality. Leather is the most expensive, especially if it used for both uppers and soles. Since leather allows the feet to “breathe” in the shoes it helps avoid sweat accumulation and skin irritation. But while most leather uppers are preferred, leather soles are not necessary and can be so replaced by rubber or crepe footwear.

6. The Soles of the Shoes: The soles of the shoes whether leather or rubber, should be thick enough to protect, yet flexible enough for walking. It is also imperative to look at the bottom of the soles of the shoes to determine the depth of its grooves. The deeper the shoe grooves the better for more traction and support.

7. Fitting Children’s Shoes: Parents must remember looking for a pair of shoes to fit their child’s feet, not vice versa. To get a good fit, both the shape and the size of the shoes should comfort to its feet. Foot size increases whether standing, sleeping, or running. Once the shoes are on, parents should check if its of adequate length, and width, depending upon the child’s feet needs.

8. The Proper Shoe: Particular types of footwear are appropriate depending upon the child’s age and needs. Babies and crawlers do not need shoes. They only need booties, warm socks, or pre-walking shoes that do not bind feet. Shoes for toddles, on the other hand, age 9months to 3 years, should allow the foot to breathe due to perspiration. Style and shoe-fit is important for school-age children.

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