Advanced Footcare Clinic Top Pediatric Shoes

The following children's shoes are given our 'top' recommendation for both functionality and comfort:

ASICS America Corporation

Young runners and athletes will receive superior cushioning and durability in the performance oriented Asics line of athletic shoes. Features of Asics athletic shoes include GEL® Cushioning System, the lightweight stability of the Trusstic System®, airmesh upper, and durable reinforced stitched toe caps.

Gel-Cumulus 12 GS - Pictured above

Our Recommendations: Gel-Nimbus 12 GS, Gel-1160 GS, Gel-Cumulus 12 GS, Gel-Trabuco 13 GS, Gel-160 TR GS, GT-2150 GS

Pediped™ Footwear

Pediped™ Footwear: All lines especially the Originals and Flex.

Officially recognized by the American Podiatric Medical Association as contributing to better foot health, Pediped™ footwear is a smart choice for parents concerned with the long-term development of children's feet. Pediped™ has been awarded the prestigious APMA seal of acceptance for both it's Originals and Flex lines in support of their many beneficial attributes that promote quality foot health including soft cushioned leather soles, a wide toe box and soft leather uppers.

Pediped™ Adrian - Pictured above

As babies' and toddlers' feet begin to develop, a soft, pliable shoe, such as pediped footwear, is essential to not only provide the foot protection, but also enough mobility for the foot to properly form.

Reebok

These Reebok athletic shoes have low-cut designs for increased stability, synthetic/mesh uppers for comfort, support and breathability, forefoot flexibility and air cushioning for comfort.
Reebok Flash-Alac.

Our Recommendations: Flash-Alac, Motion Lace (Grade School), Bet on this Laces (Grade School/Pre-School), Wind Magic II (Grade School/Pre-School), Back to It Lace (Grade School/ Pre-School), Wind Magic Lace (Grade School/Pre-School), FlexRide Road III

Brooks

Brooks offers neutral shoes for very small children and more supportive shoes for kids who overpronate.

Defyance Sneaker - Pictured above

Our Recommendations:
Little Kid/Big Kid Defyance Sneaker, Kids Adrenaline GTS, Kids Ghost Defyance Kids Sneaker

New Balance

At New Balance not all shoes are created equal! New youth sizing accommodates all kids' sizes from toddler to teen and they have shoes specifically designed for infants, pre-school and Grade school.

Our Recommendations: Style 631 (infants), Style 687 (Pre-school), and Style 759 (Grade School)
Adidas

Adidas athletic shoes have air mesh uppers for maximum ventilation, textile lining and EVA insole for comfort , TORSION® SYSTEM for midfoot integrity; adiPRENE®+ in the forefoot to maintain propulsion and efficiency, and adiPRENE® under the heel for superior cushioning at impact.

Supernova Glide X XTD - Pictured above

Our Recommendations: Supernova Sequence, Supernova Glide X XTD, Adilastic Bounce and the Hyperrun 3

Robeez by Stride-Rite - Baby Shoes

The best shoe mimics bare feet, by supporting - not constricting tiny growing feet. Robeez footwear flex and bend with every step. They promote good balance and unrestricted growth, while protecting little feet from the world. They stay on too, with elasticized ankles to ensure a perfectly snug fit. From crawling to cruising, walking to running, for indoors and out, Robeez makes different shoes for newborns to four-year-olds.

Robeez 1st Stepz - Pictured above

Our Recommendations: Robeez Luxury Soft Sole Collection, Robeez Mini Shoez Collection, Robeez Soft Soles and Bootie, Robeez 1st Stepz, Robeez Eco Collection

See Kai Run

The advantages to See Kai Run shoes are many! While podiatrists and pediatricians now agree that barefoot is best for proper foot and muscular development, it is not always practical. Flexible soles are recommended because they are protective for indoor and outdoor wear, yet not restrictive. The soles of See Kai Run Smaller booties are made from soft suede, with non-slip rubber pads for traction. 'See Kai Run' shoes incorporate a very flexible, yet durable rubber for the soles of first walkers. Both allow plenty of freedom for developing little feet.

Our Recommendations: See Kai Run Children's soft booties, See Kai Run Children's First Walkers, Eleven by See Kai Run for bigger kids.

Here are two great companies for Kids insoles and socks!

Spenco

Kids Polysorb Insoles - Pictured above

Today’s active kids need foot support and cushioning that’s designed for growing feet. After the age of five, when the bones, muscles and ligaments of the foot begin to fully develop, Spenco Kids® Insoles (along with quality shoes and pediatric care) are an important part of a kid’s foot future.

SmartKnitKIDS Seamless Socks

SmartKnit Kids Socks are completely free of seams providing comfort and relief to children who struggle with “bumps & lumps” in their socks. They also feature a non-binding Halo Top™ that fits comfortably without slipping down the leg. Regular socks often have elastic bands at the tops of the sock that can often pinch, bind or be a source of irritation. Lastly, high-tech fibers wick moisture away helping ensure a drier sock and help prevent “stinky feet”.

Dr. Thomas F. Vail, DPM

1725 Western Ave.

Findlay, OH 45840

419-423-1888

http://www.vailfoot.com/

Winter skin care for your child

During the winter months, you really need to pay special attention to your skin.  In many ways the winter elements are harsher on your skin because of artificial heating, dryer air, extreme cold and wind, and all the layers of clothing you wear.  Because of these conditions, you really need take care of your child's skin during this time of year.  A child's skin is more sensitive than an adults, so you need to be careful what you put on them.

Because the elements are much harsher around you durning winter, your skin is more likely to dry out.  This can lead to itchy skin if you don't moisturize it properly.  Itchy skin can then turn into eczema.

You don't just want to put on any old moisturizing lotion on your child.  You need to make sure that it is suitable for children.  Look at your products ingredients before you buy them.  Make sure the lotion has natural ingredients and even perfume and dye free.  Moisturizers come in a variety of thickness, make sure you get one that will moisturize the skin as well as allow the skin the be flexible which will help cut down on the itching.  A good recommendation would be Theraplex HydroLotion.  This lotion not only moisturizes and protects the skin from harsh drying effects of the environment, it is also fragrance free, hypoallergenic, non-comdeogenic and does not contain any dyes or irritants.  You will also want to apply lotion at least twice a day to avoid dryness.  If your child's skin needs the extra nourishment, you can apply more frequently.

Always dress your children in cotton clothing that is next to the skin.  Cotton fabrics allow your skin to breath and this will avoid skin chaffing from the friction that wool fabrics can cause.  You will also want to consider changing your detergent that the clothing is washed in for the winter months.  Depending on the type of laundry detergent you use, this could add to your dry skin problem.

Just because it is winter does not mean you can forget about sunscreen.  Sunscreen will protect them from the sun's UV rays and also give an extra protective barrier against the environmental elements that can affect the skin.

If you have any questions regarding your child's footcare during the winter, please contact our office at 419-423-1888 or visit us on our website at www.vailfoot.com.

Pediatric Heel Pain

What is pediatric heel pain?  Heel pain is a very common childhood complaint.  This doesn't mean that it should be ignored.  Heel pain is a symptom, not a disease.  This means that the pain is a warning sign that your child has a condition that deserves attention.  The most common cause of pediatric heel pain is a disorder called calcaneal aphpysitis, and usually affects 8 to 14 year olds.  However, pediatric heel pain can be a sign of many other problems and can occur at younger or older ages.
Pediatric heel pain is very different than adult heel pain.  With adult heel pain, the pain is intense when getting out of bed in the mornings or after sitting for long periods of time.  The pain subsides after walking around a bit.  In pediatric heel pain, the pain usually doesn't improve in the same manner, it usually becomes worse with walking around.    Heel pain is common in children because of the very nature of their growing feet.  Because their feet are continually growing, the heel bone (the calcaneus) is not fully developed until the age of 14 or older.  Until the heel bone is developed, new bone is forming at the growth plate (the physis).  This is a weak area located at the back of the heel.  Too much stress on the growth plate is the most common cause of pediatric heel pain.

Symptoms of pediatric heel pain include:

• Pain in the back or bottom of the heel
• Limping
• Walking on toes
• Difficulty participating in usual activities or sports

If your child has any of these symptoms, you should see a podiatric specialist to determine the underlying cause of the pain to determine a plan of treatment.  There are a number of possible causes for a child's heel pain.  Some of these causes may include:

• Calcaneal apophysitis.  More commonly known as Sever's disease, this is the most common cause of children's heel pain.  This is not a true "disease", it is an inflammation of the heel's growth plate due to muscle strain and repetitive stress. This especially occurs in children who are active or obese.  This condition usually causes pain and tenderness in the back and bottom of the heel when walking and is painful when touched.  This condition can occur in one or both feet.
• Tendo-Achilles bursitis.  This condition is an inflammation of the fluid-filled sac (bursa) located between the Achilles tendon and the heel bone.  Tendo-Achilles bursitis can result from injuries to the heel, certain diseases like juvenile rheumatoid arthritis or wearing poorly cushioned shoes.
• Overuse syndromes.  The heel's growth plate is sensitive to repeated running and pounding on hard surfaces.  Because of this, pediatric heel pain often reflects overuse.  Children and adolescents are especially vulnerable if they are involved in soccer, track or basketball.  A common overuse syndrome is Achilles tendonitis.  This inflammation of the tendon usually occurs in children over the age of 14.  Another common overuse syndrome is plantar fasciitis.  This is an inflammation of the band of tissue (the plantar fascia) that runs along the bottom of the foot from heel to toes.
• Fractures.  Heel pain is sometimes caused by a break in the bones.  Stress fractures(hairline breaks resulting from repeated stress on the bone) often occur in adolescents engaged in athletics, especially when the intensity of training suddenly changes.  In children under the age of 10 acute fractures can simply result from jumping 2 or 3 feet from a couch or stairway.

Arch Angel Childrens Comfort Insoles

Treatment depends on the diagnosis and the severity of pain.  For mild heel pain, some treatment options may include to reduce or stop any activity that may be causing the pain.  You might want to try an insole like Arch Angel Childrens Comfort Insoles that will help cushion the heel when walking, running, and standing.  Your doctor may also have your child take a non steroidal anti-inflammatory drug like ibuprofen to help reduce the pain and inflammation.  Physical therapy and stretching exercises are sometimes used to promote healing of the inflamed tissue.  Your doctor may also recommend getting custom molded orthotics to support the foot properly.

You can also reduce your chances of developing heel pain by avoiding obesity, choosing well-constructed and supportive shoes that are designed appropriately for your child's activity.  Also avoid or limit the wear of cleated athletic shoes as well as avoiding activity that is beyond your child's ability.

If your child has any of the symptoms listed above or concerned about your child's foot health, please contact our office at 419-423-1888 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Vail or visit our website at http://www.vailfoot.com/.

Your Baby's Feet

Starting at birth, you need to pay close attention to your child's feet from proper grooming to their gait.  This will provide for a solid foundation as your little one grows.  The foot is one of the most complicated parts of the body. It has 26 bones, an intricate system of ligaments, muscles, blood vessels and nerves.  A young child's feet are very pliable and any abnormal body force can cause deformities.  Your child's feet grow very rapidly during their first year.  This is the most critical developmental stage for the foot. 

To help with normal development you should:

• Carefully check your baby's feet. If you should notice anything that looks out of the normal, contact Dr. Vail's office to schedule an appointment.  Most deformities cannot correct themselves if they are not treated.
• Don't restricted your baby's feet.  Shoes and booties are not necessary for infants.  They can actually restrict their movement and can inhibit the toes and feet from normal development.
• Give your baby the opportunity to exercise their feet.  Lie your baby uncovered so they are able to kick and perform other related motions which prepare the feet for weight bearing.
• Change your baby's position several times during the day.  If they lie too long in one spot it can put an excessive strain on the feet and legs.  Also, make sure you limit the time your baby spends in a standing activity center.  It is recommended  no more than 15 minutes at a time.

When your baby is ready to walk
You should never force your child to walk.  Your child will walk when they are physically and mentally ready.  Never compare your child with other children when it comes to walking milestones.  Each child is different and can start walking anywhere between 10 to 18 months of age.  When your baby does start to walk, you do no need to place them in shoes when indoors.  Walking barefoot allows the foot to grow normally and to develop its musculature and strength and well as the grasping action of the toes.  When your child is walking outdoors, make sure their feet is protected in a natural made lightweight and flexible footwear.

Warning signs when your child starts walking

Once your child is on the move, pay attention to their walking pattern or gait.  It's not uncommon for little ones to walk on their tip toes, but persistently doing so is.  Dr. Vail will be able to examine your child to make the proper diagnosis and determine the best treatment options.  Children with a family history of foot problems should see a podiatrist once they start walking to ensure the feet are developing normally.

Other common childhood walking irregularities are in-toeing and Metatarsus Aductus.  With in-toeing, one or both of the feet point toward each other due to a rotation in the foot, leg, thigh, or hip. Excessive tripping, like with many walking irregularities, can reveal a more serious condition such as in-toeing.  Some ways to combat in-toeing at home include having your child stand with their heels touching and feet pointing outward and sitting with their legs crisscrossed.  Metatarsus Adductus is a bending of the foot inward at the instep resembling the letter "C".  This is prevalent in early walkers.  Tripping is also a warning sign of Metatarsus Adductus.  The Arch Angels Childrens Insoles will be able to help in maintaining your child feet in a neutral position along with stabilizing the feet and ankles.  Your podiatrist can also diagnosis and treat Metatarsus Adductus with serial casting and in more severe cases, surgery.

Since most children aren't quick to tell their parents when they are experiencing foot pain and discomfort, you should pay attention to the unspoken signs such as limping, tripping, taking one or both shoes off frequently or unevenly worn footwear.  Your young child's feet may be unstable which can make walking difficult or even uncomfortable.  A thorough examination by a podiatrist  may detect an underlying defect or condition which may require immediate treatment.

If you have any questions regarding your child's foot care, please contact us at 419-423-1888 or log onto our website at http://www.vailfoot.com/.

Flat Feet in Children

What are flat feet?

Flat feet is a condition in which the foot doesn't have a normal arch. It may affect one foot or both feet. At first, all babies' feet look flat because an arch hasn't formed yet. Arches should form by the time your child is 2 or 3 years old. Flat feet, even in older children, usually do not cause any problems.

What causes flat feet?

Most flat feet are caused by loose joint connections and baby fat between the foot bones. These conditions make the arch fall when your child stands up. This is why you sometimes hear flat feet called "fallen arches." The feet may look like they have arches when your child is sitting or when the big toe is bent backward, but the arch flattens when the child puts weight on the foot.

Should I take my child to the doctor?

If your child complains of foot or ankle pain, take him or her to the doctor. Flat feet in an older child may cause pain in the heel or arch, or may cause pain when the child is walking and running. Your doctor will look at your child's feet to make sure that the pain isn't caused by a problem in the hip or the knee. Rarely, flat feet can be caused by foot bones that are joined together. In this case, the bones can't move, and the foot hurts. Your child may need to have x-rays, but your doctor probably can tell you what the problem is just by looking at your child's feet.

Will my child need special shoes or inserts?

Probably not. Your child's foot development will be the same whether arch supports are worn or not. High-top or special orthopedic shoes, "cookies" or wedges are only useful to keep the shoe on your child's foot. If your child has foot pain, your doctor may recommend a heel cup or a shoe insert. One of the products Dr. Vail may recommend is the Dr. Jill Arch Stepper (click link to view product)

Will some activities make flat feet worse?

No. You don't need to limit your child's activities. If flat feet become painful from overuse, your doctor may recommend rest. Wearing a certain style of shoe, walking barefoot, running, doing foot exercises or jumping will not make flat feet worse or better.

Can surgery help?

Surgery is not helpful for most patients with flat feet. If your child's flat feet are caused by fused foot bones, and if shoe inserts and casts have not helped, surgery may be considered. Your doctor can help you make that decision.

To view the rest of our helpful products for flat feet (click here)