Paediatric flat-foot

Paediatric flat-foot can be classified as symptomatic or asymptomatic. Symptomatic flat-feet exhibit symptoms such as pain and limitation of activity, while asymptomatic flat-feet show no symptoms.

Symptoms

Most children with flat-foot have no symptoms, but some have one or more of the following symptoms:

• Pain, tenderness, or cramping in the foot, leg, and knee
• Awkwardness or changes in walking
• Difficulty with shoes
• Reduced energy when participating in physical activities
• Voluntary withdrawal from physical activities

How is it treated?

If a child has no symptoms, treatment is often not required. Instead, the condition will be observed and re-evaluated periodically by the Podiatrist.  Orthotic devices (insoles) may be considered for some cases of asymptomatic flat-foot.
When the child has symptoms, treatment is required. The Podiatrist may select one or more of the following approaches:

• Activity modifications. The child needs to temporarily decrease activities that bring pain as well as avoid prolonged walking or standing.
• Orthotic devices. These support the structure of the foot and improve function.
• Physical therapy. Stretching exercises provide relief in some cases of flatfoot.
• Shoe modifications. We will advise you on footwear characteristics that are important for the child with flatfoot.