When summer hits, it’s easy to reach for the flip flops, slides, or Crocs—but if you’ve got an active kid at home, their footwear could be doing more harm than good.
While these shoes may be cute, affordable, and convenient, they often lack the support young, growing bodies need—especially for kids who are running, jumping, playing sports, or just spending long days on their feet.
What to Look for in Proper Summer Footwear
When choosing shoes for your child this season, here’s what Dr. G recommends:
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A mid-foot break – Shoes should bend in the middle of the sole, not the toe or heel. This supports healthy movement and foot development.
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Lateral support – Shoes should be stable side-to-side to help prevent ankle rolls and build better balance.
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No arch collapse – Choose shoes with a firm sole that doesn’t flatten under pressure. If the foot sinks into the shoe, it’s not offering enough structure.
Shoes like Crocs and flip flops are fine for the pool or short trips—but they’re not meant for all-day wear or physical activity. When kids wear unsupportive shoes regularly, it can lead to problems like arch pain, knee discomfort, tight hips, and even back pain.
Why It Matters for Growing Bodies
Children’s bones, muscles, and joints are still developing—and their movement patterns are being formed every day. The right footwear not only helps prevent injuries, but also supports better posture and long-term joint health. And for young athletes, it can improve performance and recovery.
If your child is dealing with:
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Heel or foot pain
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Knee discomfort after playing
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Frequent falls or poor balance
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Tightness in the hips or lower back
… it could be a sign their footwear isn’t supporting them properly—or that their body needs a little extra attention.
How We Can Help
At Indian Trail Chiropractic, we see young athletes every week. From soccer players to dancers to playground pros, we help kids stay aligned, prevent injuries, and feel their best—especially during growth spurts.
We offer gentle, customized care to:
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Assess postural development
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Address common overuse injuries
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Improve flexibility and mobility
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Educate parents on the right footwear and body mechanics
Your child’s future starts from the ground up—literally. Let’s make sure they have the support they need to move, grow, and play pain-free.
Call our office today to schedule a pediatric assessment or sports performance check-in. We’re here to help your young athlete thrive!
