Could My Child Have Flatfeet? What Should I Do?

“Flatfoot” is a condition that occurs in children and adults. However, when the deformity occurs in children, it is called “pediatric flatfoot.” Flatfoot can come in various forms, but the common characteristic is the partial or total collapse of the foot arch.

An article by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons warns that if it remains untreated, flatfoot could result in permanent deformity once adulthood is reached. Flatfoot makes mobility and exercise painful, which increases the risk of reduced cardiovascular health and obesity.

Children suffering from pediatric flatfoot will have foot arches which collapse when sitting and/or standing. Flatfoot can be apparent at birth or can develop throughout childhood. Flatfoot can develop in one individual foot, but often occurs in both feet.

Additional symptoms of flatfoot include:

• Awkwardness in walking, sometimes with outwardly turned heels
• Swelling, tenderness, and/or pain in the foot, ankle, leg, or knee
• Problems with shoes
• Sudden changes in or withdrawal from physical activity

Not every child suffering from pediatric flatfoot will display outward symptoms. Some may complain of discomfort or cramping in the foot and ankle area. Pediatric Flatfoot should be diagnosed by a foot and ankle surgeon.

If symptoms are not present, treatment may not be required. The condition will be monitored and periodically evaluated by the foot and ankle surgeon. For children experiencing flatfoot symptoms, there are several non-surgical treatment approaches such as:

• Activity modifications
• Orthotic devices
• Physical therapy
• Medications
• Shoe modifications

Surgery is needed in some circumstances to relieve the symptoms and improve foot function. The surgical procedure(s) selected for your child will depend on the type of flatfoot and degree of the deformity.

Learn more about pediatric flatfoot at http://ntfoot.com.
If your child might be suffering from Pediatric Flatfoot, contact the podiatry specialists at North Texas Foot & Ankle today: 214-574-9255