INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE AND CARE OF YOUR CHILD’S UCBL (SHOE INSERT)
Check your child’s feet periodically (every 2 to 3 hours) for the first couple of days and as needed thereafter to make sure that there are no problems. Please call our office if your child develops any pressure areas or red marks that last longer than 20 minutes to ½ hour after use.
PURPOSE AND FUNCTION:
UCBLs are intended to support the arches of the feet in order to prevent unwanted collapse of the bones and joints of the feet and ankles. Supporting a corrected position of the feet can help with patient comfort and proper mechanics of the bones and joints of legs, hips and back.
INSTUCTIONS:
Socks must always be worn with the UCBLs. A clean, thin, snug sock with a heel works best.
Athletic shoes will work the best. Shoes should have laces or double Velcro closures. Shoes with zippers or elastic bands should NOT be used. Laces and straps on the shoe should be snug enough to prevent the child’s foot from sliding around on the UCBL because that movement can lead to blisters.
The insole must be removed from the shoe.
Because there are no straps on the UCBLs, the laces or Velcro should be closed snugly in order to hold the foot in place.
Holding the foot correctly into the UCBL is very important to insure that your child is comfortable and that blisters or tissue breakdown does not occur.
UCBLs may be easily placed from one pair of shoes to another. Care must be taken to make sure that the shoes fit properly. Poorly fitting shoes can cause problems and discomfort for the patient.
POTENTIAL RISKS AND PRECAUTIONS:
All orthoses should be inspected on a regular basis to ensure that the structural integrity of the materials and that the UCBL’s are withstanding the rigors of daily use. With any orthotic device there is potential for material failure. There is risk that a fracture in the material could create sharp edges or a loss of function of the UCBL, leading to loss of balance and potential for falls or injury. As your child grows, their foot will also grow and may change shape which can also lead to pressure areas or tissue breakdown. For these reasons, it is very important for caregivers to inspect each orthosis on a regular basis and report any safety concerns or fit problems to Pediatric Orthotic Specialists immediately.
CLEANING SUGGESTIONS:
UCBLs can be cleaned by washing them out with soap and water as needed.
Allow to air dry.
Please call our office immediately with any questions or problems regarding the orthotics.
(616) 956-5556.
In case of an after hours emergency, please contact:
Gabe Beversluis cell– 616-540-8028
Kevin Soules cell – 517-262-1089
Contact your child’s PCP regarding any health changes or concerns.