Back To School Shoe Shopping

Fall is almost here and the kids are heading back to school- in some parts of the country children have already started! And of course, everyone wants new shoes. While the latest styles may be what your children are screaming for, you may want to remember some important tips before letting fashion take a front seat to practicality and safety.

Kids come in all shapes and sizes and so too do their shoes. Shop at stores with experienced sales people that feature a wide selection of footwear styles, sizes, and widths. Do not assume a given size will fit the same  for different brands of shoes. Avoid man-made materials (like rubber and plastics) because they limit breathability. Hand-me down clothes are great- but not shoes. Once you've purchased those new shoes, remember to check them every several months, since kid's feet grow rapidly.
While flip-flops are all the rage for the beach and pool, they can create problems in crowded school hallways and getting on and off the school bus. While it may not be easy to coax your children out of flip-flops for school, it's safer for them to wear a shoe with more support. Your podiatrist can recommend some great options for teenagers that may fit the bill in the fashion area while still providing support and comfort throughout the day.
If your children participate in sports in the fall, send them onto the field or the court with properly fitted shoes that are designed for that specific sport. Basketball shoes, for example, are designed for quick stops and starts, and ankle support, while football cleats need to serve an entirely different purpose. Let the shoe fit the sport and try to get help when choosing shoes for each sport.
If your child has a foot problem, call one of our six locations to make an appointment.

Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Podiatrists in CT
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Mid-Year Foot Check-Up For Kids

Children will be thrilled to know they've made it half-way through the school year. Their shoes have also

made it through half the year, and it may be time for a new pair.
Children's feet can grow up to two sizes in six months. If you suspect your children's growth has made their shoes too tight, check for blisters on the back of the heels, corns and calluses on the toes, or ingrown toenails.

Check the shoes for wear and tear, too. Shoes lose their shock absorption over time. If it's time to buy new shoes, choose a pair that has a little, but not too much, room for growth. Shoot for about a finger's width of space between your child's big toe and the front of the shoe. Don't buy shoes too big, however. Oversized shoes cause the foot to slide forward, putting pressure on the toes.

Be sure the shoes have a toe box wide enough to accommodate your child's feet, adequate cushioning and shock absorption. Children with flat feet also need shoes that provide arch support. If your child is having trouble walking or running or is experiencing foot pain despite properly fitting shoes, call one of our offices for a check-up.

Connecticut Foot Care Centers

Podiatrists in CT
Children's Foot Doctor in CT

Visit our website, like our page on Facebook and follow our tweets on Twitter. 

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