Signs of Shoe Size Struggles
It may feel like everything has stopped growing for the season, but there is one thing that hasn’t: your child’s feet. Children often experience growth spurts, and we can sometimes miss the signals that it is time for a new pair of shoes. If there’s one thing that we know, wearing the wrong size shoes can impact a child’s feet, now and into the future. There is always the rush to check shoe size before school starts, but we forget about the winter season, too. Even if growth does not appear to be much, it can make a significant difference to comfort.
The Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists help parents learn how to recognize the signs of the wrong pair of shoes. From choosing a new pair of sneakers for a sport or buying boots for the winter, there are helpful tips to help you learn the ropes. Follow these three steps this winter to care for your children’s feet:
Watch for corns and, calluses
Have you noticed a corn on the pinky toe? What about a callus forming along the side of their big toe joint? This layer of hardened skin signals one thing: too much friction. Corns and calluses are often a sign that their shoes are too small or narrow. The style of shoe is just as important.
Watch for sideline sitting
If your child isn’t playing their favorite game of tag or taking advantage of recess, perhaps it’s time to ask questions. Depending on your child’s age, they may not be able to express that it’s time for a bit more wiggle room. Ask direct questions about whether your child enjoys wearing a pair of shoes. If they don’t like a pair of shoes, ask them why. Listen for words like “hurt,” “tight,” or “ouch.”
Watch for lines or redness
Another visible sign of the wrong size shoes is lines across the feet or even redness. You may even notice indentions in your child’s skin in the area where they tie their shoelaces. If you see lines, there’s no need to guess about comfort. It’s time for a size upgrade. Make time to get your child’s feet measured. Most stores rely on the Brannock Device for an accurate measurement.
With locations in Tucson, Oro Valley, and Green Valley areas of Pima County, Arizona, we have vast experience treating issues of the ankles and feet. Our team: Dr. Christopher M. Funk, Dr. Bradley A. Whitaker, Dr. Peter C. Merrill, and Dr. Zeno Pfau. Our doctors offer the greatest in technologically advanced methods and cutting-edge medical treatments. Please call 520-575-0800 and make an appointment.
