Your child has a bunion and it is causing pain. They are too young to have the surgery. But you want to do something for the pain. What can you do? One thing to try is using a bunion.
Another treatment recommended is orthotics. The theory on orthotics is that some bunions are caused by overpronation. Orthotics limit the pronation so they will limit the bunion formation. There are no studies to indicate that orthotics are effective at slowing down or preventing bunion formation. However, the theory is out there and it has never been disproven. So what orthotics are ideal for a child with a bunion?
Ideally, you would get custom orthotics made by a Podiatrist. The Podiatrist takes a cast of your son’s or daughter’s foot and then makes an orthotic specifically designed for their foot. These orthotics can be expensive, as much as $400 in some instances. However insurance has been know to cover them.
If custom orthotics is not an option for you, there are always over the counter orthotics which are a cheaper option. What do you look for in an over the counter orthotic? You want an orthotic that will help control pronation while at the same time being comfortable enough for your child to wear. Below I have listed what I believe to be the best orthotics for children with bunions:
Pedag Bambini 3/4 Children’s orthotic– I like this orthotic for a couple of reasons. It is light and comfortable, increasing the chances that your child will wear the orthotic. This orthotic has good arch support with a deep heel cup to help control unneccesary pronation. This helps delay the formation of splay foot, which is a bunion formation.
Power step PowerKids Pediatric Orthotic Support– These are my favorite children’s orthotics. The deep heel cup and solid arch support will help slow pronation and the formation of the bunion. The poron top cover will also encourage your child to wear this orthotic.