Should Children Have Orthotics? What Parents Need to Know

As a parent, watching your child complain of foot or leg pain — or noticing the way they walk — can be concerning. One of the most common questions podiatrists hear from parents is: does my child need orthotics?

The answer is not always straightforward, but understanding when orthotics are appropriate and when they are not can help you make an informed decision for your child's long-term health.

First, Understand That Some Things Are Normal

Children's feet develop gradually. Flat feet, for example, are completely normal in toddlers and young children — the arch typically develops between the ages of 3 and 6 as the soft fat padding under the foot is replaced by more defined muscle and bone structure.

Not every child who walks with their feet turned in, has low arches, or trips frequently has a problem that requires treatment. Many of these presentations are simply part of normal development and resolve on their own over time.

This is why a professional podiatric assessment is so important — it distinguishes between what is developmentally appropriate and what genuinely requires intervention.

When Might a Child Need Orthotics?

Orthotics may be recommended for a child when a structural or biomechanical issue is causing pain, affecting function, or is likely to lead to complications if left unaddressed.

Common reasons a podiatrist may prescribe orthotics for a child include:

• Persistent flat feet – When the arch does not develop as expected, or when flat feet cause pain and fatigue during activity
• Overpronation – Excessive inward rolling of the foot during walking or running, which can place strain on the ankles, knees, and hips
• Heel pain (Sever's disease) – A common growth-related condition in active children aged 8–14, where orthotics help offload pressure on the growth plate
• In-toeing or out-toeing – Where the feet consistently point inward or outward in a way that affects gait and causes tripping or discomfort
• Growing pains in the legs – Sometimes linked to biomechanical strain that orthotics can help reduce
• Juvenile arthritis or neurological conditions – Where foot support is needed to maintain function and comfort

What Does the Assessment Involve?

A paediatric podiatric assessment is thorough but straightforward. Your podiatrist will:

• Review your child's medical and developmental history
• Observe how your child stands, walks, and runs
• Examine foot posture, arch structure, and muscle strength
• Assess joint flexibility and range of motion
• Ask about any pain, fatigue, or activity limitations your child experiences

Based on this, they will determine whether orthotics are appropriate, or whether other interventions such as stretching exercises, footwear changes, or monitoring over time are the better approach.

Will Orthotics Affect My Child's Development?

This is a common concern among parents, and it is a fair one. The short answer is: when prescribed appropriately, orthotics support healthy development — they do not hinder it.

Custom paediatric orthotics are designed to guide the foot into a better functional position, not to do the work for the foot entirely. They are often used alongside exercises that strengthen the muscles supporting the arch and improve overall biomechanics.

It is also worth noting that children's orthotics are reviewed regularly, as feet change quickly during growth. Your podiatrist will monitor your child's progress and adjust or discontinue the device as needed.

Signs to Look Out For as a Parent

Book a podiatry assessment for your child if you notice:

• Complaints of foot, heel, or leg pain — particularly after physical activity
• Reluctance to walk, run, or participate in sport
• Visible wear on one side of their shoes more than the other
• Frequent tripping or an unusual walking pattern
• Swelling or tenderness around the feet or ankles

The Bottom Line

Orthotics can make a meaningful difference for children experiencing foot pain or biomechanical issues — but they are not necessary for every child with flat feet or an imperfect gait. The key is getting an accurate assessment from a qualified podiatrist who can guide you based on your child's specific needs and stage of development.

Early intervention, when it is needed, can prevent problems from persisting into adulthood. And when it is not needed, you will have the reassurance of knowing your child's feet are developing just as they should.

Concerned about your child's feet or the way they walk? Book a paediatric podiatry assessment with our team online or call (03) 8358 9929.

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