Children want to explore the world, take part in sports and play with their friends, both at home and at school. However, problems with mobility and/or pain in limbs or joints can make this difficult to achieve. Gary has had over 30 years' experience of working with children with all types of conditions and pathologies (see below for some examples) and with the use of appropriately designed child-sized orthoses, is able to provide the best possible clinical service to all our younger patients.
Plagiocephaly
It is not unusual for a baby to have a slightly abnormal shaped head at birth or in the weeks following. However, if after 6 weeks there seems to be a persistent flat spot, either on the back or on one side of the head, then it could be Positional Palgiocephaly. There can be many reasons for this to happen but early treatment of this is the key to a successful result.
After diagnosis treatment begins with the use of 3-D non-contact laser scan which provides precise measurements within minutes and allows the production of an accurate 3-D image which can then be virtually manipulated by Gary to provide the necessary correction. From this model the appropriate cranial orthoses can then be manufactured. Gary has been working in this area of orthotics for over 10 years since undergoing specialist one-to-one training in America.
Foot & Ankle
It is important that parents understand that a child’s foot is not just a miniature adult foot – they have a unique development pattern and function. Unlike teeth and eyes, foot health in kids is often neglected. This can lead to problems not only in the feet, but elsewhere as well - for example in their knees and hips.
The rules that you have learned about taking care of their own feet often do not translate to what is best for your children. Relatively soft cartilage is present and bone is still forming. Especially during the first year of your child's life, their feet will be incredibly soft and pliable. This means that any abnormal, repetitive pressures (from a poorly fitting shoe for example) can easily cause the foot to deform.
Foot problems can also affect your child’s personality. A child with foot problems may walk awkwardly and not be as athletic as they should. In some children this can lead to them being shy, introverted, and avoidance of sports and other social functions.
It is recommended you have your child’s feet checked if any of the following are noted:
In your child’s foot check-up we will check every aspect of your child’s foot health including:
My first meeting with Gary was a revelation. A simple explanation of my problem followed by a choice of solutions gave me hope. Since receiving my AFO I have not only continued activities I previously did but have expanded them to include Alpine Walking and Snowboarding. Meeting Gary was a genuinely life changing experience." Chris Turner
My first meeting with Gary was a revelation. A simple explanation of my problem followed by a choice of solutions gave me hope. Since receiving my AFO I have not only continued activities I previously did but have expanded them to include Alpine Walking and Snowboarding. Meeting Gary was a genuinely life changing experience." Chris Turner
My first meeting with Gary was a revelation. A simple explanation of my problem followed by a choice of solutions gave me hope. Since receiving my AFO I have not only continued activities I previously did but have expanded them to include Alpine Walking and Snowboarding. Meeting Gary was a genuinely life changing experience." Chris Turner
Elite Orthotic Consultancy
