Our feet are the foundation of our bodies. If they are not functioning properly, it can be the source of pain in places such as the knees, lower back and neck.
Here are some tips, courtesy of Toronto podiatrist Dr. Hartley Miltchin, to help your children have the best possible foot health.* Parents often confuse leg pains with growing pains when they can actually be a result of foot problems. Growing pains occur usually in the evening and if the pain is in the shin or calf area, a massage will make the pain disappear. If the pain doesn't subside, it's foot pain.* Kids or teens shouldn't have fatigued feet from walking or doing outdoor activities after a normal period of time. If they do, they most likely have problems with their feet.* Once the sole and heel area is worn, it's time to get your kids new shoes. As well, look at the side of the shoe where the baby toe is. If the side is jetting out or worn looking, throw the shoes away.* You should take your child to see a podiatrist before the age of six. At this time there is a better chance or correcting foot problems. * Buying shoes bigger in the hopes they last longer isn't a good idea. While shoes should be bigger rather than smaller, if they're too big they can cause tripping and abnormal walking.* Many people like to pass shoes on once they've outgrown them. Second-hand shoes don't often fit properly or have the proper support.* Velcro shoes are OK as long as they are good quality and have the proper support. * Like adults who can only wear some shoes for a short period of time, the same rules apply to children in regards to flip-flops or plastic and foam-type shoes. Parents should limit the time their children are in these shoes because they are not good for their feet.* Go to a store where people know about shoes and can help you get the proper shoes for your kids. There are many places to buy good sneakers. Olly Shoes in Toronto, for example, has a special scanning process to get the exact measurements and best fit for your child's feet.