Respectful children’s shoes: a systematic review

Abstract

Background: Child footwear, both in pathologies and in normal situations, can affect the foot in various ways depending on its characteristics. Below, some features of child footwear are described, and how they can influence the foot, including suitable size, shape and design, flexibility, and transpirable material; inadequate footwear includes situations with flat foot, equine foot, and hammer toes. It is important to highlight that each child is unique and may have different footwear needs. In case of specific pathologies or concerns, it is recommended to consult a specialist in podology or foot medicine for personalized assessment and recommendations. Methods: The present systematic review was conducted in accordance with the guidelines outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Results: Children’s footwear must adapt to all stages of children’s growth, starting from when they begin to walk, to promote the correct evolution of their musculoskeletal system. For up to six months, they do not need to wear shoes; socks and similar clothing are enough to warm your feet like a second skin. The flexibility of respectful footwear is essential between six months and three or four years. From that age onwards, the soles can be somewhat thicker, and the buttress can have a certain firmness, but the shoes should remain flexible. Conclusions: Eco-friendly footwear, which typically comes from small businesses and factories, is sometimes described as “ergonomic footwear”. However, there is some reluctance towards this term. When choosing this type of footwear for children, it is important to not just look at the label; rather, one should verify that it meets all the necessary characteristics to be considered respectful.