UAE back-to-school: Are your child’s school shoes hurting their feet? Doctors explain how to pick the right pair
Uniforms, backpacks, stationery, water bottles...shoes. SHOES! You can guarantee that every parent mutters the same chant in their sleep, and invariably, realise that they have forgotten about shoes. And for all you know, the shoes would either be too tight, or the soles have worn down (Double sigh). As any morose parent would tell you: A shoe that looks sharp, fits the budget, and matches the…
Back-to-school season is upon us in the UAE, and parents are stocking up on uniforms, backpacks, and - crucially - school shoes. However, a common oversight is ensuring the shoes are the right fit for their child's feet. Both comfort and functionality are essential to prevent foot problems down the line.
Pediatricians and orthopedic surgeons from Aster Clinic Sports City and Medcare Hospital in Sharjah have shared their expert advice on selecting the ideal school shoes. Comfort should be the primary consideration over style or budget. The shoes should accommodate the child's foot shape, allowing the toes to move freely within a generous, rounded toe box.
A secure heel and midfoot fit is crucial, preventing the foot from sliding around. The shoe should bend naturally at the forefoot, mimicking the foot's natural movement. Breathable, durable materials and a reasonable grip on the sole are important for hot climates and active children. An adjustable fastening system provides a secure yet comfortable fit.
When trying on shoes, the child should walk around in them to assess comfort. Both feet should be measured, as they may differ in size. There should be approximately a thumb's width of space between the longest toe and the end of the shoe, allowing the toes to wiggle and spread. Avoid shoes that are too narrow, as they can lead to blisters, calluses, and discomfort.
While some cushioning is beneficial for older children, overly cushioned shoes are not necessarily better, and thicker soles are not always necessary. A secure heel is important for preventing excessive foot movement, but the shoe does not need to resemble an orthopedic boot. Arch support is generally not required for healthy children, unless there are specific foot conditions like flat feet, which would warrant individual assessment.
Ill-fitting shoes can cause minor irritations that may escalate into significant foot problems, altering the child's gait and posture. Therefore, ensuring the right fit for school shoes is vital for maintaining healthy feet throughout the school year.
Written by urgent.news from Gulf News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
