Flat Foot In Children
The treatment of flatfeet in childen is considered controversial by many health professionals. The arch in a toddler or beginning walker always tend to be lower and appear flat. This is a normal part of physiological development of the arch of the foot. There is also more fat in the arch at this stage giving the impression that the arch is actually flatter than it really is. By the time the normal heel-toe gait pattern of adults develop around the age of six years, the arch should become more normal looking. Consideration is always given by parents and grandparents to consulting a health professional when it does not appear normal.
Most young children with flat feet do tend to grow out of them naturally, but some do not and at a later age they may become symptomatic. This is where the debates between health professionals occur as if it needs treating in the developing child. If there is any pain or symptoms, then treated should be started and there are no issues. However, if it is what is known as an asymptomatic paediatric flat foot, then the decision to treat is an ethical one. If they are to grow out of the problem, should they be charged money and fitted with foot orthotics over the long term. There is lots of discussion, argument and debate with no clear evidence either way.
Those that need to be treated are those who are at risk of developing problems in the future. Those who are less likely to grow out of it are perhaps those whose both parents have flat feet. Perhaps those who are severe are less likely to grow out of it. Those who show no sign of improvement if followed for a year or more should probably be treated. Pediatric flatfoot is a controversial subject.
Mail this post
Leave a Reply