Conditions of the feet and ankles can strike at any age, causing challenges with standing, walking, and running. During childhood development, our children must have room to learn mobility skills without the barriers of pain and instability.
Pediatric orthotics target the conditions in children that hinder their abilities to stand, walk, run, skip, and more.
- What Are The Benefits Of Orthotics For Children?
- At What Age Should Kids Get Orthotics?
- What Is The Difference Between An Orthotic And Prosthetic?
- Does Insurance Cover Orthotics For Kids?
What Are The Benefits Of Orthotics For Children?
Pediatric orthotics may treat or slow down the progression of conditions in children that cause pain and impairment. Children may struggle with problems that directly affect their feet and ankles, including joint hyperextension, adolescent scoliosis, and flat feet syndrome.
Foot Alignment, Posture, and Balance
Orthotic medical devices can function as a brace to align bones, muscles, and tendons. For those with irregularities in the ankles, feet, hips, or knees, this can help with standing and walking correctly.
Like alignment, orthotics address the foot’s posture by repositioning the bones and soft tissue. This can help stop or slow the onset of conditions such as plantar fasciitis or tendonitis, which cause inflammation and pain. Braces, shoe inserts, and insole orthotics can support and stabilize the foot structure by fixing posture and how the foot sits and moves.
Decreasing Pain and Muscle Weakness
Foot and ankle conditions can cause pain and weakness by throwing off the balance of pressure when standing and walking, as well as additional problems like the development of calluses and ulcers. With orthotics, children can be fitted with medical devices designed to relieve pressure on the affected areas of their feet and add stability with movement.
At What Age Should Kids Get Orthotics?
Pediatric orthotics can begin as early as a year old, although rare. Around two years of age, caregivers may notice problems with development that may require orthotics. In these cases, the child may outgrow the issue by age three. Keep your child’s pediatrician updated on any development delays you notice. If they have yet to outgrow these or show signs of new conditions by the age of six, then orthotics will likely be the best option.
What Is The Difference Between An Orthotic And Prosthetic?
An orthotic is an insole or brace used to support the foot, toes, or ankle. A prosthetic is an artificial limb that replaces a body part, commonly an arm, leg, foot, or hand.
Does Insurance Cover Orthotics For Kids?
Prescribed and custom-made pediatric orthotics may or may not be covered by insurance. Each provider varies, but if you do out-of-pocket, it will likely cost around $500.
Pediatric Orthotics At Pongratz
Pongratz specializes in orthotics and prosthetics, including braces, splints, and cranial remolding helmets.
Our pediatric services include:
Contact us today to learn how we can serve you and your loved ones.
