Are you the parent of a young child whose feet seem a little too flat to you? You have a right to be concerned. While studies have shown that 97% of young children have a flat valgus foot, it may not correct itself without intervention.
Most cases of flat foot usually resolve in the first few years of life, generally between ages 3 and 10. However, flat foot can persist beyond adolescence into adulthood, causing joint pain and serious postural problems.
In order to avoid these situations, it is important to recognize and identify flat foot in children.
What causes flat foot among infants?
Most children are born with a collapsed plantar arch which gradually forms during the beginning of walking and growth. Normally, plantar arches are well defined by age 10, although slight changes can occur during puberty. Beyond this stage, plantar recovery without podiatry intervention is unlikely.
Persistent flat foot in adulthood originates from childhood and is generally caused by factors such as:
- Reduced muscular strength
- Instability of the ligaments
- Knock-knees (genu valgum)
- Obesity
Certain hereditary diseases can also promote flat foot in children:
- Marfan syndrome, leading to unequal limbs and ligament hyperlaxity
- Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, causing ligament hyperlaxity
When should you take action?
In early childhood, flat foot is common due to fatty pads on the sole that later give way to the arch. A flat foot that remains after this process has not been properly completed.
If your child older than 3 years shows any of these signs, it may indicate a more serious flat foot problem:
- An Achilles tendon that appears shorter or deformed
- A relatively rigid foot
- Unbalanced gait (pronation)
- Abnormally worn shoes
- A tiptoe gait
- Pain in feet, ankles, legs, or knees
However, feet can reposition during growth or puberty. Consultation with a podiatrist is recommended especially if pain or impaired movement persists.
What are the solutions to consider?
To prevent your child from growing up with flat foot, multiple options exist. A podiatrist can evaluate your child and diagnose flat foot if necessary (children evaluation).
Recommended treatments in addition to natural growth include:
- A program of corrective exercises at home
- Physiotherapy
- A prescription for plantar orthotics or orthopedic insoles
In rare cases, foot surgery may be considered after additional tests such as digital foot radiography and a biomechanical examination.
PiedRéseau: a reliable resource for the management of your child’s flat foot
Flat foot in children often resolves naturally, but discomfort or difficulty moving warrants professional advice. PiedRéseau’s podiatrists can assess the condition and recommend appropriate treatments.