Every parent wants to choose the best foot orthotics or pediatric bracing for their child, and education is the best place to get started.
Foot orthotics and pediatric bracing can provide the essential support your child needs to begin exploring the world on their own. As a parent, you will want the best device and fit to ensure your child can enjoy the greatest amount of mobility possible. To achieve this goal, consider the following five factors when choosing foot orthotics or bracing for your child.
Physicians
Involve your child’s rehabilitation team early in your search for foot orthotics or pediatric bracing. Including doctors, physical therapists, occupational therapists, social workers, and orthotists in the discussion allows your family to benefit from their combined knowledge and insight into your child’s unique needs. Schedule visits with each member of this team, taking thorough notes on their individual recommendations and sharing the insights with the other health professionals. Together you can narrow down the many options to one that will work for your child.
Diagnosis
Foot orthotics for children and pediatric bracing can be customized to meet specific needs. You must take into consideration your child’s diagnosis and prognosis, as well as short- and long-term goals that your family’s rehabilitation team has established. Advancements in modern orthotics and brace manufacturing will allow you to find a custom device that adheres to the high standards of quality necessary for a medical device. Adjustments can be made to padding, straps, and materials to accommodate your child’s condition.
Age
In the past, pediatricians and orthopedic surgeons discouraged the use of foot orthotics for children under the age of five. They believed that because children’s feet undergo dramatic changes, a child’s body could potentially correct mobility issues as it matured. Today, many health professionals recognize the benefits of early intervention.
Babies born prematurely can require almost immediate splinting to address future mobility issues. Older infants may need pediatric bracing as soon as they pull up to stand, a precursor to walking. Bracing early in a child’s life can help bones grow normally if they have been diagnosed with a developmental disability such as Down syndrome, which can affect the joints and cause permanent deformities if not addressed.
Interests
Foot orthotics are intended to offer freedom, empowering your child to pursue the activities and social interactions that would have been difficult without a device. Make sure your child feels included in the process of choosing an orthotic that will become a large part of their life. Allowing your child to select minor design features such as the color of the device can make them more likely to wear it. Personalization is also important when it comes to your child’s favorite activities. Preventative orthotics can allow your child to participate in team sports and hobbies they enjoy.
Insurance
Understanding your family’s health insurance coverage is necessary to ensure you will be able to cover the cost of foot orthotics for children or pediatric bracing. These devices are typically considered durable medical equipment (DMEs) and require some documentation for insurance reimbursement. You will likely require a doctor’s prescription if your child needs customized foot orthotics, so be sure to discuss this with members of your rehabilitation team. If you have questions, do not hesitate to contact a representative from your insurance company or a government agency if you qualify for Medicaid.
If you are interested in foot orthotics for children or pediatric bracing, contact Horton’s Orthotics & Prosthetics today at 501-683-8889 to set up an appointment with one of our certified clinicians.
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