How to choose the right orthopedic shoes for children with hallux valgus?

A diagnosis such as planovalgus foot deformity is not uncommon in young children, so it is very important to take timely measures to prevent further complications.

This diagnosis is made when the shape of the foot begins to resemble the letter X, and the arch of the foot changes and the axes change.

Hallux valgus implies the following manifestations: the heel and toes look outward, while part of the foot is lowered.

Lack of treatment can cause the tendons to begin to perform their natural role very poorly, and the baby will begin to tire very quickly and be in constant pain.In this case, the curvature of the posture begins to be observed, the child cannot move normally and completely.He will always have to limit himself in outdoor games.And with age, the muscle structure will atrophy more and more, which will ultimately lead to disability.The treatment of this pathology is carried out with an integrated approach, the important point of which is the wearing of special orthopedic shoes by the patient.

Product requirements

There are certain requirements for medical shoes, which must be worn for many foot pathologies.

Step support features

In the production of high-quality therapeutic shoes, special straps with a special shape of the anatomical profile must be used, as well as an insole with a built-in support for climbing.They are responsible for the proper formation of the arch of the foot.

Molded backdrop

In the production of high-quality therapeutic shoes, a thick heel made of thermoplastic is used.Each size has its own specific background parameters.

Shoe height

In the production of such models, great attention is paid to the formation of children's legs, as well as their fixation.This is achieved thanks to the height of the shoes and reliable and strong fasteners and velcro straps.

Material

Since high demands are placed on models with a therapeutic effect, the use of high-quality materials is allowed.Proper ventilation of the feet can only be ensured by models made of natural materials.

Salt

A special feature of the sole is its structure and density.Its rear part is reinforced with a climbing frame, but the front part must be elastic and flexible so that the foot does not feel restricted in its movement.

Also, such a sole is endowed with special rolling possibilities in the area of the toes, so that the foot is positioned as correctly as possible when moving.

Useful properties

During the treatment of a pathology such as hallux valgus, one should not choose a preventive model, but only a therapeutic option.Children's orthopedic shoes for hallux valgus must fit perfectly in certain points in order to fully justify their purpose.Orthopedic shoes with high tops and backs are considered therapeutic.They will help the foot to make the correct movements and take the right position to prevent further deformations.Due to the presence of a low heel, a rigid fixation is achieved, which ensures the correct position of the foot.

The use of precisely such therapeutic shoes in treatment is simply mandatory, because they act as a specific simulator and are responsible for the even distribution of the load during movement.This ensures the full functioning of muscles that did not perform their role due to deformation.

Thanks to the use of orthopedic shoes in treatment, the following occurs:

  • Formation of proper gait and posture;
  • Prevent further deformations;
  • development of muscles and ligaments without the appearance of pathologies;
  • Reducing the load on the entire spine.

Can I choose the model myself?

Everyone should know that it is possible to successfully correct any type of leg deformity only in childhood.Therefore, it is very important to seek the help of an orthopedist as soon as possible.The younger the child, the greater the likelihood of success and full recovery.

children's shoes for hallux valgus

You should not choose shoe models for the treatment of deformities yourself;this can be done by a professional after a thorough examination and certain examinations.Also, you should not convince yourself that wearing such shoes will be able to cure the child 100%;this may not happen.Pathology may still remain, but to a lesser extent.

Only using an integrated approach increases the chances of a full recovery.

It is important to remember that therapeutic orthopedic shoes for planovalgus deformities should not be worn all the time.This can cause atrophy of completely different muscles.

shoes for children with hallux valgus

Basic recommendations

When purchasing a treatment model, pay attention to the following:

  • To achieve the desired result, you should choose the correct size as much as possible.Shoes shouldn't be too big or too small – just fit your feet.The child's feelings are very important here.
  • Under no circumstances should you buy orthopedic models without the presence of a child.Every shoe should be tried on.The baby not only has to wear each of them, but also walk a little.
  • Do not forget that children's feet grow very quickly, as well as themselves, so it is very important to monitor the size and change the shoes at least once every 6-8 months, and sometimes more often.
  • Orthopedic shoes for children with hallux valgus deformity should have a wide enough toe box that will not cause toe compression when walking.The baby's gait should remain firm and sure;for this reason, preference should be given to models with closed toes.
  • When choosing, special attention should be paid to the sole.A too hard sole will reliably protect the foot from sprains, but there is a risk of developing flat feet.Therefore, in addition to the thick rear part of the sole, the shoe should have a sufficiently elastic front part, which will bend easily when the child moves.
  • The anatomical insole should have a support for climbing, which will ensure proper fixation of the foot, which will allow all loads to be properly and evenly distributed.
  • Orthopedic shoes must have reliable and high-quality Velcro straps and latches to ensure a tight fit.
  • In order to prevent your feet from sweating and always stay dry, preference should be given to models made of ventilated leather.
suitable shoes for a child with hallux valgus

It is worth noting that the purchase of orthopedic models is also recommended for children with healthy feet for preventive purposes.But such shoes will be slightly different from therapeutic ones.Preventive shoes are only intended for proper load distribution and prevention of many problems with the formation of the spine and the entire musculoskeletal system.

If hallux valgus is present, wearing preventive models will not give results;they will only be needed therapeutically in order to start noticing changes in a positive direction on the foot.Most often, it is mandatory to wear therapeutic footwear when diagnosing a moderate or severe disease.Anti-valgus shoes are sold in specialized stores and must be labeled appropriately.

Children diagnosed with deformities should also wear orthopedic insoles at home that are inserted into permanent closed shoes.It is also worth wearing when performing a special set of exercises to straighten and strengthen the calf and foot muscles.But all treatment measures should be carried out with the permission and under the supervision of a treatment specialist.

children's insoles for hallux valgus

Preventive measures

As it became clear, therapeutic orthopedic shoes for hallux valgus are needed only if the diagnosis has already been established, but preventive footwear is recommended for all children, as it will help in the proper formation of the musculoskeletal system.

Children who have had rickets, pneumonia or acute respiratory diseases are at risk of developing the disease.Unfortunately, this disease can also be hereditary.

To prevent the development of hallux valgus, you must follow simple recommendations.

  • To minimize the possibility of developing such neurological problems, you should be examined by a doctor when planning a pregnancy.
  • Until 7-8 months, you should try to reduce the load on the baby's fragile legs.Very often parents, in an effort to teach their baby to walk faster, provoke the development of the disease themselves.
  • Do not neglect the mandatory examinations at the pediatrician.
  • In the first months, carry out all preventive measures to avoid the development of rickets in the baby.
  • If possible, perform special exercises in your free time to prevent the development of deformities.
  • Get used to buying only high-quality shoes for your baby from an early age.
  • You should not skimp on your child's health, especially on the purchase of high-quality orthopedic shoes.After all, buying low-quality models can lead to serious problems in children during the formation of the musculoskeletal system.

Treatment of such a pathology is a rather complex process that will require time and patience.But the sooner it is organized, the more likely a positive result will be achieved.