Pediatric Flatfoot
What is Pediatric Flatfoot?
Pediatric flatfoot is a congenital foot deformity that results in excessive collapse of the arch. Although a flat arch is normal in young children, in pediatric flatfoot the excessive arch collapse continues longer than normal and carries into adulthood. There are different types of pediatric flatfoot, which include asympomatic, symptomatic, rigid and flexible. Asymptomatic pediatric flatfoot is a foot with a low arch and no associated pain or symptoms. Some patients with no symptoms in childhood may develop symptoms in adulthood. Symptomatic pediatric flatfoot occurs when there is pain associated with the low arch. Signs of a symptomatic flatfoot in a child include: refusing to participate in sports/ activities, asking to be carried excessively, pain, changes in walking, and difficulty wearing shoes. Rigid and flexible pediatric flatfoot are sub-types of symptomatic flatfoot. A rigid flatfoot is one where the arch stays the same whether standing or sitting. Conversely, a flexible flatfoot has a low arch while standing and a normal arch while sitting.
How can a Chiropodist help?
A Chiropodist can evaluate the extent of the arch collapse through a biomechanical exam and gait analysis, advise on activity modification, prescribe custom foot orthotics, give stretching exercises, provide information on proper shoes and treat secondary complications such as tendonitis.
The information provided is intended for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for a proper medical evaluation. Treatment options will vary from person to person.
Pediatric flatfoot is a congenital foot deformity that results in excessive collapse of the arch. Although a flat arch is normal in young children, in pediatric flatfoot the excessive arch collapse continues longer than normal and carries into adulthood. There are different types of pediatric flatfoot, which include asympomatic, symptomatic, rigid and flexible. Asymptomatic pediatric flatfoot is a foot with a low arch and no associated pain or symptoms. Some patients with no symptoms in childhood may develop symptoms in adulthood. Symptomatic pediatric flatfoot occurs when there is pain associated with the low arch. Signs of a symptomatic flatfoot in a child include: refusing to participate in sports/ activities, asking to be carried excessively, pain, changes in walking, and difficulty wearing shoes. Rigid and flexible pediatric flatfoot are sub-types of symptomatic flatfoot. A rigid flatfoot is one where the arch stays the same whether standing or sitting. Conversely, a flexible flatfoot has a low arch while standing and a normal arch while sitting.
How can a Chiropodist help?
A Chiropodist can evaluate the extent of the arch collapse through a biomechanical exam and gait analysis, advise on activity modification, prescribe custom foot orthotics, give stretching exercises, provide information on proper shoes and treat secondary complications such as tendonitis.
The information provided is intended for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for a proper medical evaluation. Treatment options will vary from person to person.
