Foot health matters at every stage of life — from energetic kids finding their balance to active adults and older people wanting to stay mobile and pain-free.
At Adelaide Podiatry Centres, we see how custom orthotics, when combined with good footwear, exercise and professional care, can make a real difference for people of all ages.
Children: Building Strong Foundations
During childhood, the feet develop quickly and can change shape as bones and muscles strengthen. While most children grow out of flat feet or in-toeing naturally, some benefit from orthotic support to:
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Encourage healthy arch development
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Improve balance and coordination
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Reduce leg fatigue during sport or play
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Ease discomfort from poor foot posture
Evidence suggests orthotics may help children with symptoms related to abnormal foot posture, though every case is unique. Our podiatrists assess whether orthotics are appropriate or if exercises alone will suffice.
Teenagers and Young Adults: Supporting Growing Bodies
Teenagers often experience growth spurts that temporarily affect coordination and posture. Combined with sport or long hours in school shoes, this can trigger pain or overuse injuries.
Custom orthotics for this age group can:
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Support healthy movement patterns during rapid growth
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Relieve pain from flat feet or over-pronation
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Reduce strain on the knees, shins or arches
It’s important to monitor how young people respond; orthotics are adjusted or phased out as bodies adapt.
Adults: Preventing Pain and Enhancing Performance
Busy adults spend long hours on their feet or training for fitness goals. Foot mechanics play a huge role in comfort and injury prevention.
Custom orthotics can:
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Improve alignment and posture
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Redistribute pressure evenly across the feet
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Relieve heel and arch strain
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Help manage plantar fasciitis, bunions or knee pain
Research shows both prefabricated and custom orthotics can relieve pain, but custom options provide precise support when biomechanics are complex or symptoms persist.
Older Adults: Staying Comfortable and Confident
As we age, the natural cushioning in our feet decreases and joints may become stiffer. This can make walking less stable or more uncomfortable.
Orthotics for older adults can:
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Provide cushioning and stability
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Support fallen arches
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Improve balance and confidence on uneven ground
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Reduce discomfort from arthritis or joint wear
Studies indicate orthotics can improve comfort and walking efficiency for older adults, though results vary depending on individual health and mobility levels.
A Holistic Approach at Adelaide Podiatry Centres
At our clinic, we use both 3D-printed and Voxelcare in-house orthotics, precisely tailored through gait and biomechanical assessment.
However, we recognise orthotics are not a “one-solution-fits-all” answer. We often combine them with:
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Strength and stretching programs
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Footwear guidance
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Balance and mobility exercises
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Ongoing podiatry review
This integrated care ensures the best outcomes for comfort, function and long-term mobility.
Final Thought
From childhood growth to maintaining independence later in life, custom orthotics can play a valuable role in keeping your feet aligned and comfortable.
At Adelaide Podiatry Centres, we take an evidence-based approach — assessing your individual needs, explaining your options clearly, and creating a plan that supports you every step of the way.
