Children's feet change a great deal as they grow, and most children who look flat-footed need no treatment. When a child has pain, tires quickly or walks in a way that worries you, an exam can tell you whether anything needs to be done. WellCare Medical in Bradford fits custom orthotics for children as well as adults, after an exam by our chiropractor.
What is normal in a growing foot
Babies and young children have flat feet. The arch forms gradually through childhood, and many children have a low arch until they are well into their school years. A flat foot that is flexible, painless and the same on both sides is usually a normal stage of growth.
Signs that are worth having checked
- pain in the feet, ankles, knees or legs, during or after activity
- a child who tires quickly, asks to be carried or avoids sport
- frequent tripping or falling
- shoes that wear down very unevenly
- feet or ankles that roll inward a long way
- one foot that looks or moves differently from the other
What happens at your child's exam
A parent or guardian stays with the child throughout. Our chiropractor asks about the problem and about your child's activities, looks at the feet while your child sits and stands, and watches them walk. See what happens at a gait analysis and biomechanical exam. Bring the shoes your child wears most.
If orthotics are likely to help, the chiropractor explains why, takes the measurements and writes the prescription. If they are not needed, we will tell you, and suggest what to watch for as your child grows.
Orthotics and growing feet
Children outgrow orthotics as they outgrow shoes. We recommend having them checked each year, and sooner after a growth spurt, so a new pair can be made when the old one no longer fits.
What children's orthotics cost
| Custom-made orthotics, one pair, including the biomechanical exam, gait analysis, measuring and fitting | $500 |
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Fees at WellCare Medical Bradford, October 2026
Many work benefit plans cover custom orthotics for children who are on a parent's plan. Check your plan for the amount and for how often a new pair is covered. You pay at the clinic and submit the claim yourself. See using your work benefits.
When to see a doctor promptly
See your doctor without delay if your child has a limp with no clear cause, pain that wakes them at night, a swollen, red or warm joint, a fever with leg pain, or will not put weight on a leg.
Walk-ins and new patients
Walk-ins are welcome for every treatment on any day we are open. If we have availability we will see you right away. Calling ahead is the best way to avoid a wait.
Common questions about children's orthotics
Do flat feet in children need treatment?
Usually not. Flat feet that are flexible and painless are a normal stage of growth. An exam is worthwhile when there is pain, tiredness or a difference between the two feet.
At what age can a child have orthotics?
There is no fixed age. It depends on the child and the problem. Call us at (365) 247-0440 and we will advise you.
How often will my child need new orthotics?
As often as their feet outgrow them. We recommend a check each year, and sooner after a growth spurt.
Are children's orthotics covered by insurance?
Many work benefit plans cover custom orthotics for dependent children. Check your plan for the amount and the paperwork it needs. You pay at the clinic and submit the claim yourself.