Do Kids with Flat Feet need Orthotics? A Guide

Talk with your podiatrist about your child’s developing feet and how to keep them healthy.

Why See a Foot Specialist?

The human feet have almost one-third of all the bones in the body. This makes them one of the most complex parts of our anatomy.

As a child grows, their feet change in several ways. They start with a soft structure when young. As they grow, their feet become more rigid. Many complications can occur from improper foot function making it important to screen children’s feet during development.

Detecting problems early can prevent injuries, pain, discomfort, long–term developmental issues and even surgery.

Untreated conditions can also negatively affect your child’s physical, social and psychological development. It is important not to assume your child will outgrow foot problems.

What is Normal?

Feet suffer a tremendous amount of force every day, and problems not addressed are likely to worsen over time. These are the warning signs that something is wrong:

• Limping
• Painful feet
• Complaints of tired feet
• Frequent falls when running

Even if your child does not show any of the above symptoms, a visit to your podiatrist allows you to review:

• Uneven shoe wear
• Tripping and falling
• Lack of activity
• Prevent future issues

Factors That May Cause Foot Problems

• Genetics
• Injuries
• Weight gain
• Diabetes
• Overuse in sports

What Can be Done? 

Your podiatrist can effectively diagnose and determine the treatment needs of your growing child with a thorough examination. In some cases, working with your podiatrist to educate yourself may be all you need to do. Other times, treatment may be a suitable solution. 

Your Podiatrist May Recommend:

• Stretching exercises 
• Physical therapy 
• Appropriately fitting shoes 
• Increasing or reducing physical activity 
• Orthotics – prefabricated devices or custom foot orthotics

What are Foot Orthotics? 

Foot orthotics are corrective devices designed to control foot function and are inserted into shoes. By realigning foot and ankle bones to a more neutral position, natural foot development and function are usually restored. Orthotics can help improve poorly functioning feet before long‐term problems occur. 

ProLab Kiddythotics (pictured above) are designed using the best medical research, making them the most effective children's prefabricated orthotics. A reasonable economic choice, these devices can only be acquired through your doctor. In some cases, a child may need custom-made foot orthotics specifically designed for his/her feet.

If Your Child Has:

• Heel Pain 
• Sports Injuries 
• Stress Fractures 
• Flat Feet 
• Ingrown Toenails 
• Shin Splints

Ask Your Podiatrist 

• What does it mean if my child has one of these conditions?
• Will my child outgrow it?
• Will this make my child more prone to injury? 
• Are there negative lasting effects? 
• Can the issue be corrected? 

Identifying whether your child needs foot orthotics can help prevent long-term discomfort and improve their overall foot health. If your child experiences persistent foot pain, frequent tripping, uneven shoe wear or visible foot misalignment, it may be time to consider orthotic support. Early intervention with the right orthotics can support healthy foot development and improve stability. 

Always talk to a podiatrist or healthcare professional. They can give you the best advice on whether your child needs foot orthotics.

Related Product Groups on Algeos.com

Foot Orthotics & Insoles Algeos full range for you to view by category.	Diabetic Insoles Insoles for diabetics and arthritic patients.	Arch Support Insoles For flat feet and people requiring robust foot support.	Children’s Insoles Insoles for children and young adults.
Slimflex Orthotic Insoles NHS-supplied orthotic insoles designed for versatile chairside fitting.	Interpod Foot Orthotics Prefabricated orthotics range trusted by clinicians for broad conditions.	Podotech Foot Orthotics Thermo-mouldable semi-bespoke orthotics designed to mimic custom devices.	Silicone Gel Orthotic Insoles Gel cushioning insoles for shock absorption, comfort and everyday pain relief.
Heel Lifts Heel raises and lifts for Achilles pain, calf strain and leg length discrepancy.	Plantar Fasciitis Insoles Insoles and orthotic options focused on arch support and heel pain reduction.	Memory Foam Insoles Pressure-relieving memory foam insoles for comfort and sensitive feet support.	Orthotic Insole Top Covers Top covers and linings to improve comfort, durability and in-shoe feel.
Semi-Bespoke Orthotics & Shells Orthotic shells designed for semi-bespoke builds and clinical customisation.	Orthotic Wedges and Posting Wedges and posts for modifying orthoses and refining alignment and control.	Heel Cushion Pads Heel cushioning and heel spur solutions for targeted shock absorption.	Orthotic Heel Raises Heel raise additions for orthotic adaptations and plantar loading management.