Serving the Central Okanagan, North Okanagan,
Columbia-Shuswap, Kootenay Boundary, Central Kootenay & Okanagan-Similkameen Districts

Address:

#109A – 1960 Springfield Rd 
Kelowna, BC V1Y 5V7

Clinic Hours:
9:00am – 4:00pm (Mon-Thurs)
9:00am – 4:00pm (Fri)
Clinic Number: 
778-478-7014
Toll Free:
1-888-913-7919
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Pediatric Orthoses

Client with Pico the dog
Client with Pico the dog & Pediatric Orthoses​

Pediatric Orthoses involves more than simply fitting children’s small bodies into adult devices. Children’s desire to be active and explore their surroundings means they want to be independent and keep pace with their peers, whether they are spending time with friends, engaging in sports, attending school, or going about their daily lives.

At Ortho Design, we recognize each child’s unique requirements and strive to meet them, enabling them to thrive, develop, and be a kid. We also recognize that parents require assistance, and we are here to provide it!

Custom Footwear
Cranial Remolding Orthoses|Helmets (CRO)

Children's Feet

The feet are intricate structures comprising 26 bones, muscles, and ligaments designed to support body weight on uneven surfaces and absorb shock. Although most of the foot’s structure develops within the first two years, the bones themselves do not fully harden until around age 18, making early assessment of a child’s foot crucial.

During the first three years of a child’s life, their feet can grow up to 12 sizes, and many parents may be concerned about their child’s flat-looking feet. However, most children are born with flat arches that develop over the next 7 to 8 years into the foot they will have as adults. Inherited foot traits, such as a mild bunion, can also affect a child’s foot development. If a child’s foot has a mild flatfoot and has a normal family history and development, no treatment may be necessary. However, severely pronated feet or atypical development may require assessment.

Ortho Design - Children's Feet
Ortho Design - Pediatric Care | Children's Feet

It’s also important to assess what is happening at the knee and hip. Children who in-toe or out-toe significantly may benefit from a gait plate, which encourages internal or external rotation. Gait evaluation, biomechanics, motor and neurological development, and family history are all considered in the assessment process. At Ortho Design, orthotics are only recommended for children who are unlikely to self-correct.

Several types of children’s orthotics are available, ranging from pre-sized heel cups to custom-cast orthotics. Foot exams for children are free with a referral from a physiotherapist or physician, and foot development may be monitored over time. While good footwear is important, it does not provide the same correction level as proper arch support. Checking for proper arch support involves pressing down on the arch area of a child’s foot. Children should not experience pain while walking or running despite experiencing roughly three times more stress than the average adult foot due to high activity levels and high-impact activities.

At Ortho Design, we specialize in pediatric care! From custom orthotics to specialty shoes, we have options to assist with children’s feet.