Shoes for valgus of the child's foot

We offer a free consultation with an orthopedist in Krasnodar. The specialist examines your child and selects the appropriate orthopedic shoes or insoles. If necessary, the orthoses are made to order. To make an appointment with the doctor or order the items you need, call one of the numbers provided on the site or use the online form. You can also email us or request a call back.

Foot deformity in children - what is important to know?

The term 'foot deformity in a child' sounds scary and confusing. In reality, if you heard this diagnosis from a doctor or understood it yourself from books and the Internet, then there is no need to panic. This article explains what foot deformity in children is and what you can do to avoid it.

As the name indicates, foot deformities - a change in shape. It can be inherited or acquired.

Baby's feet begin to form as early as 4-7 weeks of pregnancy - many women are not even aware of their particular condition at this point! However, there is no longer any way to influence the development of feet in general and feet in particular, so rest easy.

In most cases, the pathology begins to develop when the baby begins to walk. It is more common in children who are actively raised to walk by their parents. Running early is harmful to the spine and legs.

Therefore, to Dr. To quote Komarowski: 'The child must want to sit and walk independently' (Section 1.7.5 of the book). (Section 1.7.5 of the book 'Child Health and Family Common Sense').

Types of deformities:

Orthopedists will give us a dozen, if not more, types of this problem. Luckily, the average person doesn't need to know them all. The most common are of two types:

• valgus . – Also known as X-shaped. Outwardly, it appears as if the feet are turned outwards and the main load is on the big toe and the inside of the foot.
• Varus or O-shape looks the other way around – The child's feet are turned inwards and the pressure is on the outside of the foot. Not only the arch of the foot is curved, but also the axis of the foot. Some people refer to this as 'meningeal foot'.

Symptoms of valgus in children:

• clumsy and unsteady gait
• frequent falls while running and walking
• Raising feet on the floor
• rapid fatigue when playing outdoors
• the child complains of back and leg pain
• X-shaped feet
• Occasional swelling or cramps in your feet
• the sole of the shoe wears closer to the inside of the foot

A valgus can be congenital or acquired.

Congenital valgus is caused by intrauterine deformation of the foot bones. Diagnosis is usually made during a routine examination by a pediatrician or orthopedist, who prescribes comprehensive treatment that may include surgery. Acquired valgus develops as the child grows.

• getting up early, walking by hand or in a stroller
• Wrong footwear - unsuitable or too rigid for the foot.
• Overweight - too much pressure on the child's feet.
• Hypotonia - Muscle weakness that causes the muscles and ligaments of the toes and shin muscles to be unable to hold the foot in the correct position.
• diagnosed rickets
• neuromuscular disorders - for the same reasons as muscle hypotonia. These may include: poliomyelitis, cerebral palsy, myodystrophy, polyneuropathy
• leg injuries
• Hip dysplasia – a congenital pathology in which the joint is underdeveloped.

In my experience, there are three main causes of valgus in children. The first is. birth trauma. Most of these injuries are caused by pressure on the baby's skull or pelvis during delivery. A newborn's skull bones are more like cartilage. During birth, they move closer together, making the head more compact so it can pass through the birth canal. After birth, the baby's head is more or less 'unpacked' in the first year and a half. If the bones of the skull are too compressed at birth, they can move imperceptibly against each other, preventing the head from forming its correct shape over time. Once a child's skull has 'ossified', ie the bone tissue has replaced the cartilage, it is difficult to correct the shape of the head. The position of certain bones in the skull determines how the spine will develop. And the spine affects the position of the pelvis and even what the feet will look like. The second reason are problems with the digestive system.. Gastrointestinal diseases, including those due to genetic predisposition, cause deficiencies in ligamentous nutrients such as collagen and chondroitin. And this deficiency affects the condition of ligaments and muscles. If not adequately nourished, weak ligaments cannot hold the skeleton in the correct position. This also applies to the foot. The third reason is. spinal problems.. Diseases of the spine impair the functioning of the nervous system. When the nerve roots are severely damaged, signals to the internal organs are not properly transmitted. And when there are problems with the internal organs, it can also affect the absorption of important nutrients.

Clubfoot Diagnosis

A pediatrician may also suspect a valgus deformity, but the final diagnosis is made by a podiatrist. The doctor examines the child, conducts a series of professional examinations and, if necessary, refers for tests.

This may include X-rays in 3 projections, podometry (measurement of the temporal characteristics of steps taken when walking) and computerized plantography (a modern computerized method of examining the foot). It shows changes in the bones, allows you to calculate various parameters and assess the load on all parts of the foot. An ultrasound scan of the blood vessels in the lower limbs may also be necessary if the doctor suspects circulatory disorders or vascular compression. The examinations are safe and painless for the child.

Valgus (X-shaped curvature of the child's legs). What is that.

valgus (Latin for 'valgus') is a lower limb deformity in which the legs curve inward relative to the midline, a condition called an X-bend. This deformity affects the knees, feet, and big toes.

Valgus is quite common and occurs as early as childhood. If you visit a specialist in time, you have a good chance of recovery.

Valgus (X-shaped curvature of the legs in children). treatment methods.

1. Osteopathy.

A progressive method that has established itself worldwide. Osteopathy uses an original technique that allows the patient's body to heal itself without physical treatment, traditional repair programs, or surgery. Osteopathy acts gently on problem areas, without trauma and pain.

2 Conservative method (therapy).

The method is effective at 1-3 stages of the disease. Depending on the degree of curvature, it can take a long time for the lower limbs to return to their normal appearance and function.

Conservative therapy consists of a series of physiotherapeutic treatments with paraffin, medicinal mud and ozokerite. Electrophoresis, magnetic therapy and diadynamic therapy (pulse therapy) are also used in the treatment process. Foot baths, massages, physiotherapy, swimming, gymnastics, orthopedic shoes, orthopedic insoles, etc. are indicated.

3. surgical method.

This method is used rarely and only in cases where the curvature (valgus) of the X-shaped legs is so severe that any conservative treatment does not have the desired effect.

After the operation and the removal of the cast, the patient has to undergo a long and obligatory rehabilitation, which includes physiotherapy to improve blood circulation in the lower limbs and an orthosis, which is later replaced with orthopedic shoes.

Choosing the right footwear for children with high insteps

If the high instep is not accompanied by anomalies in the arch of the foot, then any shoes with an adjustable closure can be chosen. The principles are the same as for full-shaft shoes:

• Shoes with velcro or laces are the best choice;
• Shoes with zippers should have additional adjustment elements;
• Adjusting and locking devices should be at the front;
• The width of the shoe should be adjustable from the first third of the foot (from the metatarsophalangeal joints).

If the high instep is due to an anomaly of the arch of the foot, individual orthopedic insoles should first be fitted and then the footwear should be selected according to the known principles.

Nordman offers suitable models

Shoes suitable for both wide and tall feet are sold in Nordman specialty stores - most models have two or three Velcro straps, as well as boots and ankle boots with a wide cuff and a loose instep.

summer shoes

If you have a high foot, choose sandal models with two or three Velcro straps that allow you to adjust the width across the foot:

• Nordman Play (sizes 22 to 31);

• Nordman Boom (sizes 22 to 37).

Sneakers and sports shoes with Velcro and soft materials:

• Nordman Sprint (sizes 32 to 37);

• Nordman Jump (sizes 27 to 35).

The adjustable cotton slippers Nordman Stars (sizes 22 to 37) are suitable for kindergarten and as slippers.

Demi-season shoes

The Nordman Go range (sizes 27 to 36) is for tall people. These are sporty models with soft Velcro straps.

The wide Nordman Kids rubber boots with fleece (size 22 to 37) are also suitable for cold and wet weather.

Why are there errors?

The main causes of foot deformities in children include:

• Intrauterine malformations (shortened bones, anomalies of the ankles);
• Increased pressure on the feet;
• CEREBRAL PALSY;
• Poliomyelitis;
• injuries to the legs;
• Common infectious diseases.

Orthopedic shoes are used to correct curvatures. Unlike ordinary shoes, they help distribute the load when walking, improve the cushioning properties of the feet and help eliminate pain.

Many parents wonder if healthy children can wear orthopedic shoes. To avoid harm, it is advisable to consult a doctor. Only a specialist can make the right decision. If there are signs of pathology of the musculoskeletal system of the feet, he will prescribe preventive orthopedic shoes for children. Visually, they do not differ from ordinary shoes, but they help to maintain the health of the lower limbs.

What diseases lead to foot deformities?

The most common pathologies of the lower limbs in children include:

• Clubfoot - this is a congenital condition. It results from excessive pressure of the uterus on the fetus or from infectious diseases that occur during the first trimester. It manifests itself in the forefoot collapsing when moving inwards.
• Bad feet are not diagnosed until the age of 6. In young children, the feet are actively formed and often have a slight curvature that is not abnormal. A flattening of the longitudinal or transverse arches or both arches of the foot indicates the presence of a pathology;
• Valgus deformity is manifested by an increase in the distance between the ankles, when the knees are tightly squeezed, to 40-50 mm. The axis of the foot is curved and the ankles form an X. With valgus deformities in children, the soles of shoes wear out unevenly. Inadequate treatment often leads to curvature of the spine.
• The varus condition is characterized by inward tilting of the heels and a narrowing of the distance between the ankles; the feet take an O-shape. The outer parts of the feet carry most of the load when walking. Children with this condition have difficulty walking and jumping.

How do you apply for a grant for free orthopedic shoes for your child?

First, let's look at the question: How to choose the right shoes for a toddler?
If your child is less than 1 year old but already suspects a foot deformity, you should choose shoes that are as light and comfortable as possible. This means they should only have a few seams, but should fit securely.
Do not forget!!!
The main task of parents with a child up to 1 year old is to develop the habit of wearing shoes.
When your child is about 3 years old, the shoes should have a firm back and a deep sole. They should have laces or velcro to keep the ankle tight.
For children from 3 to 7 years old, when choosing shoes, you should make sure that they have a firm back, provide a firm grip, but do not pinch the toes and gently enclose the wide part of the foot.
For a child with a flatfoot deformity, the use of orthopedic insoles, which are made strictly individually and changed as the child grows, is mandatory.
The sewing of special orthopedic shoes in Ukraine is regulated at the state level.

You may be interested to know that a state orthopedic social program for children up to 18 years of age and special categories has been developed and is being implemented in major cities.
If a child has been diagnosed with a valgus foot deformity, parents can order custom-made special orthopedic shoes free of charge. This requires the following steps:

1. Apply for a referral from the local Employment and Social Security Office
2. Complete the application form and provide copies of birth certificate, TIN, LCC certificate, residence registration certificate and social security card
3. Choose from the manufacturer's catalog of rehabilitation equipment
4. Contact the company itself with the package of documents

What should the right orthopedic shoes for treating 'flat feet' have?

Orthopedic shoes for the treatment of flat feet have:

• First and foremost, high and stiff glutes – this is a very important point as the glutes keep the heel and ankle in the correct position and prevent the feet from tipping in;
• A strong and pronounced arch support. It aims to act on the longitudinal arch of the foot, forcing the muscles to work in a new way and redistributing the load on the feet when walking;
• Also important is the Thomas heel, which supports the insole and helps the foot to be in the right position.

Shoes should be made of genuine leather, because on the one hand this is a durable and dense material, and on the other hand it is comfortable and practical to wear.

Shoes? sandals? Boots?

The trade offers many models of orthopedic therapy shoes for different seasons. Every mother's eyes are immediately distracted: there are orthopedic shoes, orthopedic sandals, orthopedic shoes for autumn and winter. Do you have to buy them all? Ideally, any shoes your child wears should be therapeutic shoes. This way you will see results faster. However, if you are struggling financially, choose the shoes that your child will spend most of their time in. First and foremost, we advise you to choose change shoes for kindergarten and school.

Almost all parents who contact us ask this question: They want orthopedic sandals with a lot of space, but not too much space. The allowable reserve for orthopedic sandals is from 5 mm to 1 cm. The optimal reserve is 7 mm.

Pay attention to the fullness of the model: the shoes should fit snugly on the foot (do not pull or cut into the skin).

Shoe tip: If you choose sandals with 1 cm more, you should ask your child to walk in them and make sure that the feet are secure and do not wobble. In addition, the child should not stumble. If you have a very young child and are choosing their first shoes, orthopedic sandals should have very little or no wiggle room. Uncertain first steps should be easy, and large margins can pose a problem.

CAUSES OF VALGUS IN CHILDREN

The causes of this pathology are quite diverse and include the following factors:

• genetic predisposition,
• little physical activity of the child,
• ill-fitting and poor-quality footwear,
• decreased muscle tone in the lower limbs,
• endocrine disorders (thyroid and parathyroid glands),
• overweight or underweight children,
• frequent colds,
• mechanical injuries to the feet,
• Rickets,
• Unbalanced, unbalanced diet,
• Disorders of mineral metabolism.

SYMPTOMS OF VALGUS DEFORMITY IN CHILDREN

Uneven wear of the soles of the shoes a child wears is the main symptom of valgus foot deformity.

In addition, the gait becomes somewhat awkward, even unsteady, with a slope on the inside of the foot, which makes the child feel tired while walking.

However, children today move very little compared to the past, so parents may not notice these changes and they are only discovered when the deformity is pronounced and has consequences that pose a serious problem.

Treatment

Treatment of balgus in children consists of restoring the foot to its normal shape and strengthening the muscles and ligaments. A valgus foot in a newborn caused by a congenital defect requires immobilization. The modeling and selection of the dressing is done by the orthopedic surgeon, taking into account the degree of deviation and the nature of the deformity.

With the acquired form, massage, baths, electrophoresis, paraffin therapy, physical therapy and swimming are indicated. In rare cases, surgical treatment is also performed. Treatment of valgus in children consists in acquiring special orthopedic shoes.

Example
The parents of a one-year-old girl noticed that their child walked on the outside in, and on self-examination found that the feet were turned in. They consulted an orthopedist they knew, and it turned out that the girl had valgus feet. The doctor recommended buying special shoes for valgus feet – high and stiff at the back, with a special shape of the heel and mandatory with a roll on the insole. A massage regimen is indicated, as well as the constant wearing of orthopedic shoes at home and outdoors. The prognosis is favorable. A few years later, at the ward round, there was a positive trend - the pathology had completely disappeared if the parents followed all the doctor's recommendations.

expert opinion

A valgus foot in a child is most often detected by an orthopedist during a routine examination. In the vast majority of cases, the pathology can be corrected with massage, physiotherapy, wearing special footwear and physiotherapy. Complications are not common but include flat feet, disability, altered posture, and joint problems. The diagnosis is made on the basis of a visual examination of the child, x-rays and ultrasound examinations.

We only publish verified information

Experienced pediatrician with extensive experience and clinical work in various medical institutions in the fields of general paediatrics, intensive care medicine, anesthesiology and neuroinfection. Works with leading specialists and participates in international and Russian conferences.

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