MD Podiatrist Explains Why Properly Fitting Shoes Matter for Growing Children

Dan Micaels, DPM, says that children can quickly outgrow their shoes, especially during growth spurts. Dr. Michaels says shoes that are too small or heavily worn can lead to pain, ingrown toenails, and a lack of proper support. “If they’re in shoes that are really worn out, they’re going to get pain,” Michaels said. “A lot of people will say, ‘Oh, it’s just growth spurts or growing pains.’ But actually, it could just be that things are worn out.”

Dr. Michaels says that worn out shoes may no longer provide the shock absorption or support children need. Poorly fitting shoes can also contribute to knee or hip pain and cause problems with a child’s toes over time. For families struggling to keep up with a growing child’s shoe size, Michaels says that access to new shoes can make a difference beyond just physical health.