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Shoe Shopping Tips for Children
Spring and summertime is just around the corner!
While parents may want to keep their young ones happy and content, it's
important for them to remember their most important task; keeping their
children safe and protected. That's why the American Podiatric Medical
Association (APMA) wants all parents to understand the importance of buying
properly fitted, and supportive shoes that offer protection and comfort.
Unfortunately some of the most trendy shoe styles do not provide proper
support for the feet. Certain shoes, such as platforms and sandals, can
cause serious problems such as ankle sprains, ingrown toenails, bunions,
blisters, calluses, and painful tendonitis. Parents should know that the
condition and fit of the shoe is more important than any price tag or brand
name.
Here are some tips from APMA to help make sure students are in the best pair
of shoes for the first day of school:
1. Check out the shoe itself. Look for stiff material on either side of the
heel, adequate cushioning and a built-in arch. The shoe should bend at the
ball of the foot, not in the middle of the shoe.
2. Always have your child's feet measured every time you purchase new shoes,
as children's feet change sizes rapidly.
3. Shoes should not slip off the heels.
4. High-tops or boots generally help prevent ankle sprains.
5. Limit the time children wear platform or heeled shoes. Alternate them
with good quality sneakers or flat shoes during the day.
6. Don't buy shoes that need a "break in" period. Good shoes should feel
comfortable right away.
7. For athletic activities, choose a shoe that is designed for the sport
your child will be playing.
8. Be aware that children might not complain about their foot discomfort.
Proper foot care is important to the overall health of children. Go to a
podiatrist at the first sign of foot problems.
For a listing of shoes that have received the APMA Seal of Acceptance, and
for more information on children's foot care visit www.apma.org or call
1-800-FOOTCARE.
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