Developmental Delay

Developmental delay means children learn skills like standing and walking later than expected. You may notice wobbly standing, frequent falls, difficulty getting up to stand, tiredness during short play, or feet that roll in or look very flat. These patterns are common in children with low muscle tone, muscle weakness or coordination differences.

When the foot and ankle can’t hold a stable posture, the knees and hips also work harder, making early movement more challenging.

Orthoses may help by supporting flat or rolling-in feet, improving alignment, providing stability for standing and reducing fatigue so your child can practise movement more comfortably and confidently.

Children develop at different rates, and noticing delays doesn’t always mean something is wrong. That said, if you’re feeling unsure about your child’s movement or mobility, it’s worth having a conversation.

You can start by speaking with your GP or paediatrician. They may suggest input from a paediatric physiotherapist or another specialist. In some cases, you may be referred to see a paediatric orthotist for further assessment.

If you’ve been advised to see an orthotist — or if you’d simply like a clearer understanding of your child’s movement and whether support may help — you’re welcome to book an assessment with one of our specialist paediatric orthotists. We’re also happy to help you connect with a physiotherapist if you’re not sure where to begin.

An orthotist can assess how a child is standing and walking, and provide supports such as orthoses to improve stability, alignment, and confidence with movement. With the right support in place, children can move more efficiently, build gross motor skills, and take part more easily in everyday play and activities.

Many children become steadier as their muscles strengthen and their confidence grows. For some, though, extra support is helpful for longer — particularly if joint hypermobility or low muscle tone continues to affect stability.

Orthoses don’t permanently change the shape of the foot. Instead, they provide support while your child is growing — helping guide posture, protect joints and ligaments, and make movement feel easier.

As strength and skills develop, the level of support can often be reduced. Some children move from more structured devices to lighter ones over time, and some may no longer need support at all.

Referrals aren’t necessary for a number of appointments. If you’d like your child assessed for head shape, toe walking or mobility, you can simply book an appointment online or by phone on 03 9836 4480.

Some conditions do need a referral however. For conditions such as hip dysplasia, scoliosis or pectus, or for management of fractures or acute injury, you’ll need a referral from your GP or other medical specialist.

If you’re unsure, feel free to contact us and we can help out.

Yes we do! We’re able to assist with a number of funding options and can help with funding applications and support documentation.

If your child isn’t eligible for NDIS funding, there are other options that might be available to you.

Feel free to contact us to discuss your needs.

Most orthoses we provide are custom-made to suit your child’s shape and needs, with comfort and function in mind.

Once we’ve assessed your child and confirmed the prescription, we’ll take a 3D scan or an impression mould. Our technical team designs and makes the orthosis locally in our Surrey Hills manufacturing lab in Melbourne.

Click here to find out more about the process.

Making an appointment is easy. You can book online for many different types of appointments. Otherwise, feel free to contact us if you can’t find what you’re looking for.

Orthokids is a specialist paediatric orthotics practice dedicated entirely to children.

We combine clinical assessment expertise with a warm, family-centred approach; designing and manufacturing custom orthoses to support each child’s individual needs and goals.

Click here to find out more.

We have a number of locations across Melbourne and beyond, with our main facility and manufacturing lab located in Surrey Hills.

We also visit over 20 Specialist Schools and attend clinics in major hospitals around Melbourne.

Click here for a list of locations.