Flatfeet is a condition where the arch of the foot appears to be absent, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. This is a common condition in children and is often a part of normal development.
Flexible Flatfoot: It is the most common type of flatfoot in which the arch is visible when the child is sitting or standing on their toes, but disappears when standing. Most children with flexible flatfeet do not experience any discomfort or problems with walking. Arch support or special shoes are not typically required unless the child is experiencing discomfort.
Flexible flatfoot is common in young children, and in most cases, the arch develops naturally as the child grows.
Rigid Flatfoot: In rigid flatfoot, the arch is not visible even when the child is sitting or standing on their toes. This can sometimes cause pain or stiffness in the feet. Rigid flatfoot may be due to underlying conditions like tarsal coalition (where bones in the foot fuse together) or other abnormalities and may require treatment.
If the child experiences pain, stiffness, or difficulty walking.
If the flatfeet seem to worsen with age instead of improving.
If one foot is more affected than the other or if other deformities are noticed.
Treatment options:
Walking without footwear at home helps the arches to develop
Physiotherapy to stretch tight calf muscles.
Customised insoles to support the feet when the child is walking or playing. Insoles are NOT a cure for flatfeet.
Surgery - in rare cases of rigid flatfoot or severe discomfort, surgery may be required to correct the foot structure.