Why are Foot Problems on the Increase?
There are some foot problems that are related to lifestyle diseases like Diabetes (numbness, burning and pain associated with poor circulation); Arthritis (pain and inflammation in the joints) and so on.
But many are related to lifestyle conditions and even lifestyle choices! Or a combination of both…
Modern lifestyle conditions include walking most of the time on hard surfaces like tiles, concrete, paving and tar.
Modern lifestyle choices include poor footwear, like very flat, thin-soled shoes, (pumps) and thongs with little or no support for bone structure.
The above conditions and choices apply to our children too!!
We have seen a definite increase of foot problems in children due to these things. And a third factor is increased stagnation time – in front of a TV or computer or games station.
How can we Change the scene?
Enforcing increased action will not do much good if it takes place on hard, smooth surfaces. Even sports fields and courts are hard and unyielding in most cases. Muscles need stimulation and movement to become fit and strong. Foot muscles and tendons remain underused and over stretched if exercised continually on wrong surfaces.
We have little control or choice when it comes to surfaces – they are already there and an accepted part of modern life. So when problems arise, the first thing we do is look for the answer in better, softer, shoes. But shoes are static – the cushioning is worn away very quickly and although the shaping inside may make you comfortable, there is no long-term stimulation for the moving parts of the foot.
Movement and stimulation of the right kind can bring about real change and rehabilitation of a weakened, misaligned foot. Children adapt and change very quickly, so we have had phenomenal success with our flexible, well-designed foot correctors.
Soft Steps® come in sizes that fit children from 8 or 9 years old and who are wearing big size shoes from 1 or 2 upward.
Conditions Helped by Soft Steps®
A few of the conditions we have seen significantly change, improve and even resolve in children:
- Flat feet
- Severs Disease
- Tendonitis
- Low muscle tone
- Shins
- Club feet – as far as possible
- Cerebral Palsy – limited but definite stabilization
Call us for personal attention and assessments.
