Table of Contents
What is Pediatric Flatfoot?
Flatfeet are common in both children and adults. When this deformity occurs in children, it is referred to as “pediatric flatfoot.” Although there are various forms of flatfoot, they all share one characteristic – partial or total collapse of the arch.
Pediatric flatfoot can be classified as symptomatic or asymptomatic. Symptomatic flatfeet exhibit symptoms such as pain and limitation of activity, while asymptomatic flatfeet show no symptoms. These classifications can assist your foot and ankle surgeon in determining an appropriate treatment plan.
Symptoms of Flatfoot?
Flatfoot can be apparent at birth or it may not show up until years later. Most children with flatfoot have no symptoms, but some have one or more of the following symptoms:
- Pain, tenderness, or cramping in the foot, leg, and knee
- Outward tilting of the heel
- Awkwardness or changes in walking
- Difficulty with shoes
- Reduced energy when participating in the physical activities
- Voluntary withdraws from physical activities
Diagnosis of Flatfoot?
In diagnosing flatfoot, the foot and ankle surgeon examines the foot and observes how it looks when the child stands and sits. The surgeon also observes how the child walks and evaluates the range of motion of the foot. Because flatfoot is sometimes related to problems in the leg, the surgeon may also examine the knee and hip.
X-rays are often taken to determine the severity of the deformity. Sometimes additional imaging and other tests are ordered.
Treating Flat Feet
Non-sugical Treatment
If a child has no symptoms, treatment is often not required. Instead, the condition will be observed and re-evaluated periodically by the foot and ankle surgeon.
Over the counter or custom orthotic devices may be considered for some cases of asymptomatic flatfoot.
When the child has symptoms, treatments is required. The foot and ankle surgeon may select one or more of the following non-surgical approaches:
- Activity modification. The child needs to temporarily decrease activities that bring pain as well avoid prolonged walking or standing.
- Orthotic devices. The foot and ankle surgeon can provide custom orthotic devices that fit inside the shoe to support the structure of the foot and improve function.
- Physical therapy. Stretching exercises, supervised by the foot and ankle surgeon or a physical therapist, provide relied in some cases of flatfoot. It is common that tight calf or hip muscles may be contributing to intoeing or flatfeet.
- Medications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, may be recommended to help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Shoe modification – The foot and ankle surgeon will advise you on the footwear characteristics that are important for the child with flatfoot.
When is Surgery Needed?
If these symptoms persist after the use of custom orthotics and supportive shoes. Then surgery may be necessary. To relieve the symptoms and improve foot function. The surgical procedure or combination of procedures selected for your child will depend on his or her type of flatfoot and severity of deformity.
Please schedule a consultation with Precision Foot and Ankle Centers for a comprehensive evalution.
