Walking Toward Confidence: A Family’s Story With Pediatric Orthotics
By: Jacob Roberts, DPT
Orthotics, commonly known as braces, are often recommended by pediatric therapists to help support and position a child’s joints so they can move more effectively and confidently. Even with the many benefits, hearing that your child may need orthotics can feel overwhelming for parents. It is natural to wonder why they are necessary and how they might impact your child’s daily life.
To offer some insight, we sat down with the parents of one of our Hogg Therapy Pediatrics clients who used two different types of orthotics during his therapy journey. Through consistent use, therapy, and hard work, he recently graduated from needing foot and ankle support. Below is our conversation, shared in hopes that it provides clarity and encouragement for other families navigating similar recommendations.
How long did your child use orthotics, and what types did he have?
Parent: “He used orthotics for just under two years. We started with SMOs and later added AFOs to use alongside them.”
How did you feel when your therapist first recommended orthotics?
Father: “Hopeful that there was a solution to help my son walk.”
Mother: “I felt nervous about getting used to a new routine, and hesitantly excited about the progress we would make.”
What changes did you notice once he began using the orthotics?
Father: “Over time his steps became straighter and he could move around easier.”
Mother: “I immediately noticed that the braces provided the stability and structure he had been missing. He was much more confident and ready to make big moves once we added them.”
Now that he has graduated from his orthotics, what differences do you see?
Father: “My son’s feet no longer pronate like they used to, and he is walking much better.”
Mother: “He can move around more independently and with much more stability, and as a mom, I feel much more at ease regarding his safety and falls.”
After going through the process, what are your feelings about orthotics now?
Father: “They are a great tool to help people walk and gain more independence.”
Mother: “They might feel a little intimidating at first, but they are a life-changing tool that I will always be grateful we had the opportunity to utilize.”
What would you tell another parent hearing an orthotic recommendation for the first time?
Father: “It takes a little extra work to adjust routines and find the right shoes, but in the long run, they work. I would do it again if needed.”
Orthotics can feel like a big step for families, but stories like this remind us just how much confidence, stability, and progress they can bring. Every child grows at their own pace, and tools like orthotics are simply one way we help them move, play, and participate more fully in their world. At
Hogg Therapy Pediatrics, we are here to support you through each recommendation with guidance, reassurance, and a team that truly cares. If your child has recently been recommended for orthotics or you’re wondering if they might benefit, we’re always here to answer questions and walk through the process together.
