Flat Feet Among Children – What Can Be Done?

Flat feet in children are more common than you think – over 44% of children below the age of 6 years old have flat feet. It is a condition whereby the entire sole of your child’s foot is in contact with the ground when standing. Foot arches help us to maintain balance and mobility when it comes to pushing off when we take a step. Our foot arches also help us adapt to walking on uneven terrains.

Why do flat feet in children occur?

Babies are born with flat feet and develop arches as they grow. Foot arches usually develop during childhood from the ages of 0 to 6 years old and it occurs when the tendons in the foot tighten and form an arch in the foot. However, for some that tightening of the tendons might not happen which eventually results in a flat foot. Flat foot is also hereditary and more common in Asia. If your family tree has a history of flat feet, there is a higher possibility that your child may have it too.

What impact does it have on my child?

For most children, being flat-footed does not come with any issues and is not a cause for concern. Even if your child does not develop a foot arch over time, they are still able to continue with the activities and sports they love without any problem. If the condition is not causing your child any discomfort, there is no need to seek medical treatment.

In rare cases, flat feet can have an impact on your child’s body. Symptomatic instances can cause your child to experience foot pain or the following symptoms:

• Falling or tripping over feet often
• Strange walking pattern such as feet tilting outwards when walking
• Feeling pain in the legs or knees

Physiotherapy as a treatment option

If your child has flat feet and is complaining of foot pain or if you notice any of the above symptoms, do schedule a physiotherapy appointment with our team of physiotherapists to have a look. Our team of physiotherapists are well equipped to handle all sorts of conditions related to muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments. Do schedule an appointment so that our physiotherapists are able to assess the condition provide you with options to relieve your child’s pain.