Pediatric Flat Foot & AFO (Ankle Foot Orthosis) for toddlers - Sheila Sim, Mommy Testimonial

Designing an AFO for Shelia Sim's Daughter Layla at East Coast Podiatry

Actress and model Shelia Sim first noticed that her 2-year-old daughter, Layla, has her ankles rolling in when she walked, and the toddler would drag her feet and sometimes fall over after walking for long periods of time.

Sheila consulted Pediatric Podiatrist Georgina Tay at East Coast Podiatry who, after a series of biomechanical assessments designed for toddlers and young children, confirmed that Layla has a mild flatfoot condition. Flatfoot (Pes planus) is a condition in which the arch of the foot does not develop properly. It can cause pain, instability, and difficulty walking if left unaddressed.

In the following sessions, Layla was fitted with a pediatric ankle-foot orthotic (AFO). An AFO is a custom-made device that helps to correct the alignment of the foot and ankle. It can also help to improve balance and coordination.

In addition to wearing an AFO, Georgina also recommended that Sheila guides Layla to do some exercises to help improve her balance and coordination. These exercises include sitting to standing, crawling, and walking on tiptoe.

After spending a few months working with Georgina on Layla's developmental milestones, Sheila observed that Layla's gross motor skills have improved significantly since she started wearing the AFO and doing the exercises. She is now more confident when she moves and runs, and she no longer drags her feet or falls over as often.