Finding the right shoe for your orthoses!

It isn’t easy to find shoes for a child who wears tibial orthoses. In fact, because of the orthoses, we are often compelled to choose shoes that are bigger and deeper without necessarily being longer, causing us great frustration.

Here are some helpful tips for the next time you shop for shoes for your child:

• It is very important to take your child with you when shopping for shoes; this way your child can try on shoes while wearing his or her orthoses. This is the best way to avoid making the wrong choice.
• Spending a whole lot of money on shoes when your child is wearing orthoses isn’t necessary. The orthoses are already providing stability to your child’s feet.
• Choose a wider type of shoe from which the inner sole can be removed. This will allow for added depth in the shoe. Choosing shoes that narrow out at the toe must be avoided. Shoes that can be laced up beginning from the toes are a great choice because they can be adjusted to the orthosis and to the ball of the foot.
• High-top shoes are not recommended because the orthoses already provides stability to the ankles. Furthermore, this type of shoe can prevent articulation for those who wear articulated orthoses.
• Opt for shoes made of flexible material. This will help the orthosis enter into the shoe more easily and allow for the shoe to take shape of the foot. Leather is generally considered to be too rigid.
• Avoid choosing a shoe that is too long because it can hinder your child’s ability to walk. Your child is already experiencing difficulties walking.
• Choose shoes that have good grip soles. This will prevent your child from slipping when getting around on foot.
• Sports sandals are great footwear for the summer season because they allow the foot to breathe! However you may have to have your shoemaker lengthen the Velcro straps so that they can be adjusted to the size of your child’s orthoses.

Happy shopping!