Our feet
More than just covering our feet for fashion, we need to cover them in quality shoes that are safe and provide adequate protection. The human foot consists of 26 bones with numerous tendons, ligaments, muscles and joints. Because of this it is very important we give our feet the protection they need just like wearing a helmet to protect our head when riding a bike. Healthy feet enable us to walk more efficiently and perform our tasks more effectively on a daily basis.
Foot development
Children’s feet differ significantly from those of adults as they are not yet fully formed. At 6 months of age the foot is still predominantly cartilage; in fact, the last bone doesn’t begin to form until children are about 3 years old. It is not until the age of 18 that most of the bones of the foot are fully developed. The arch development of a child’s foot is an individual thing and arch height, or lack of, does not always indicate a child will have problems with their feet.
When should I take my child to a Podiatrist?
If your child has pain, or one foot differs from the other, or you would like advice on the correct footwear for your child, then our Podiatrists will be happy to assist.
Why are correct fitting shoes important for my children?
On average a child spends 1500 hours in their school shoes per year. it is therefore imperative that your child is fitted with good shoes that are suitable for their individual feet. While we walk our feet absorb the shock of approximately 1.5 times our body weight and when we run this figure reaches up to approximately 7.9 times our body weight. Here at Riverside Podiatry we know children. We know they love to run and play at school and any other chance they get. This is why we believe correct footwear are crucial for the healthy development of their feet.
What will happen during a Podiatry consultation?
When your child comes to Riverside Podiatry our Podiatrists will assess their hip, knee, lower limb and foot development. They will measure multiple angles, assess your child’s foot posture but will also question the pre/post-natal history and the developmental milestones. After the assessment our Podiatrists may initiate a treatment plan if necessary, make some recommendations and will also provide your child with any necessary individualised prescriptions for footwear.
THE IMPORTANT FEATURES OF A SHOE
Outsole – the bottom of the shoe.
- The outsole plays a major role in the durability and slip-resistance of a shoe. The outsole of a dress shoe differs significantly to a sports shoe.
Upper – the top part of the shoe.
- The upper is the fabric or leather portion of the shoe which secures it to the foot.
Midsole – between the outsole and upper.
- The midsole is the most important part of the shoe when considering its cushioning and stabilising features.
Medial Post – within the midsole.
- The medial post decreases some of the instability of the cushioned midsole material and assist in controlling excessive pronation (feet rolling in). Medial posts are found in stability and motion controlled shoes but not in neutral shoes.
Shank – within the outsole.
- A shank stiffens the shoe under the arch to allow the middle portion of the shoe to be more resistant to twisting and bending forces. This encourages flexion at the toes to allow a more efficient gait pattern.
Last Shape – describes the shape of the shoe.
- Last can be curved, semi-curved or straight. A curved shoe tends to be much lighter weight and less supportive, whilst a straight lasted shoe is heavier and provides greater support under the arch.
