Question
Hello Dr. Schneider,

My daughter was seen by a podiatrist who looked at her feet, had her walk in the hallway a few times and did x-rays of her feet. I was told that she has a pigeon toe condition in both feet, and more in one that in the other. I was suggested to pay $500 for custom made leather orthotics, "that would be the only suitable solution for her age and condition". There was no mention of stretching exercises or therapy or any other options in orthotics. I did research online and found out that there are quite a few options out there, with no guarantees, of course. I would hate to pay $500 on inserts that she will outgrow in a year just to see that nothing has changed. The podiatrist did mentioned that she might improve on her own. I would love to help her but the doctor's option sounds just way too expensive for such a short time range. Would you back this doctor and say that it would be wise to get the inserts from him (they will do it in a "sock" technique, and will send it to the lab) or you would recommend exercises, therapy for her or anything else? Thank you so much!!

Answer
Without seeing your daughter, it's tough to say for sure.  I did see a 9 year old today that sounds a little similar, and indeed I recommended orthotics.  Now mine are made of plastic, not leather, but if you're comfortable with your podiatrist otherwise, no reason to question materials.  

Stretching can help as an adjunct to an orthotic, but the orthotic itself will help to provide stability and therapy with each step.  Some doctors will offer a replacement plan for kids.  Typically, I'll replace an orthotic for a kid in 12-18 months.

Just an FYI, my 9 year old and 5 year old are both wearing orthotics for different reasons...they do help.

All the best,
Andrew Schneider, DPM

http://tanglewoodfootspecialists.com
http://www.houstonfootdoc.com
http://www.facebook.com/HoustonPodiatrist
http://www.twitter.com/HoustonFootDoc