Lower Body Orthotics
Supporting Mobility & Alignment for Better Movement
At Hummingbird Pediatric Therapies, we provide expert guidance on lower body orthotics to help children improve their walking mechanics, posture, and overall mobility. If your child needs extra support for their feet or ankles, our team is here to ensure they receive the right fit for optimal movement and function.
What Are Orthotics?
Some children benefit from additional support at their feet, ankles, and/or knees to improve alignment and walking mechanics. Orthotics help to stabilize movement, prevent excessive strain, and enhance overall mobility in daily activities.
Signs Your Child May Need Orthotics
You may notice the need for orthotics if your child has:
Flat feet
Knocked-knee posture with flat feet
Frequent tripping or falling over their toes
Low muscle tone
Walking on tiptoes
Children with neurological impairments
If your child experiences these symptoms, a physical therapist can assess their walking patterns and recommend the most appropriate support.
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What Does Treatment Look Like?
A pediatric physical therapist can recommend properly fitting orthotics or shoe insoles to improve alignment. These will enhance your child’s movement mechanics for activities such as walking, running, and other gross motor skills.
Orthotic devices may include:
- Shoe Inserts or Insoles – Helps correct foot alignment and provide arch support
- Submalleolar Orthosis (SMO) – Supports the foot and ankle
- Ankle-Foot Orthoses (AFOs) – Supports the foot, ankle, and knee
Diagnosis & Evaluation
The evaluation process includes:
- Gait Analysis – Examining walking patterns for abnormalities
- Posture Assessment – Identifying misalignment in the feet, knees, and hips
- Strength and Flexibility Testing – Determining muscle imbalances that affect movement
- Functional Movement – Assessment of stairs, running, jumping, and daily activities
Our goal is to provide a customized solution that enhances your child’s ability to move with ease and confidence.
Treatment Techniques & Specialized Approaches
At Hummingbird Pediatric Therapies, we may use a variety of options to support children’s mobility, including:
- Bracing Recommendations – Customized solutions for optimal fit and function
- Serial Casting – Progressive casting to improve foot and ankle positioning
- Muscle Stretching and Strengthening Programs – Targeted exercises to improve foot arch alignment
Why Choose Hummingbird Pediatric Therapies?
We take a play-based approach to pediatric therapy, ensuring that children receive the support they need in a fun, encouraging environment. Our team works closely with families to educate and guide them through the process, providing personalized care for each child’s unique needs. Contact us to explore the orthotic solutions for your child!