Page 21 - pediatric_stroke_warriors_family_toolkit
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FINDING THE PERFECT “FIT”
The struggle is most often real in
finding the perfect shoe for your
child to wear over their orthotic.
Some may only need to wear an
orthotic on one foot, thus making
a difference in shoe sizes and an
increased challenge in purchasing
shoes. INTRODUCTION TO BRACING & ORTHOTICS
When a child first receives a diagnosis and treatment plan it will most
often include a recommendation for bracing or orthotic intervention.
Check out these recommended
This usually proves to be a learning process for both the parents and the
brands by parents: child.
• Nordstrom (will sell separate It’s natural for parents to question the need for bracing and the benefits
it will serve. As you learn more about orthotics and their potential role
sizes in same shoe)
in the life of your child, you will come to know that orthotics can be a
• Keeping Pace valuable resource for improving overall physical health and emotional
well-being.
• EasyUp Shoes
The Benefits of an Orthotic
• Hatchbacks
Ankle Foot Orthotics (AFO’S) are commonly prescribed in children with
• New Balance neurological disorders such as stroke and Cerebral Palsy. Simply put, an
• Stride Rite – Wide AFO (sometimes called a brace or splint) provides support to help a child
maintain a foot/ankle position, encourage mobility and overall improve
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• Plae – with XL Tabs stability and success.
• Nike Flyease Helping your child adjust emotionally
• BILLY Footwear Even when an orthotic is properly fitted, in a fun design - your child may
still experience frustration in wearing one. Most treatment plans require
the orthotic to be worn continually, day and/or night. Be understanding
that they may be somewhat apprehensive. Children don’t want to stand
out from their peers, so it can be difficult to wear an orthotic because it
is noticeable to others.
To help a child adjust:
• Be positive and explain how much the orthotic helps. Encourage
your child to think of it as a something that makes them stronger,
faster and safer.
• Talk with and prepare your child with answers for when others may
ask about their orthotic.
• Share pictures and stories of other children or adults, that also wear
orthotics.
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