Flat feet in children are common and often part of normal development. Many kids outgrow it as their arches form, but if flat feet cause pain, affect walking, or limit activity, it may be time to see a podiatrist.
Key Takeaways
- Flat feet in children can be normal but sometimes require assessment.
- Warning signs include pain, poor balance, or difficulty walking.
- A podiatrist can check foot posture, recommend footwear, and advise on treatment if needed.
- Supportive options include orthotics, gait analysis, and strengthening exercises.
- Early assessment helps prevent future problems with knees, hips, or posture.
What are flat feet in children?
Flat feet, also called pes planus, occur when the arches of the feet do not develop as expected. Instead of having a visible curve, the whole foot sits flat on the ground. This is common in toddlers and young children, as arches may not fully form until around 6 to 8 years of age.
While many children develop arches naturally as they grow, some continue to have flat feet into their teenage years. In most cases, this is not a problem, but sometimes it leads to pain or difficulty with walking, running, or sport.
When should parents be concerned about flat feet?
Not all flat feet require treatment. Parents should look out for signs that may suggest an underlying issue:
- Foot pain, especially in the heel or arch
- Frequent tripping or clumsiness
- Uneven shoe wear
- Limited ability to run or keep up with peers
- Complaints of knee, hip, or lower back pain
If your child avoids physical activity or struggles with walking because of discomfort, it’s a good idea to have them assessed.
How does a podiatrist assess flat feet?
A podiatrist will look at your child’s foot posture, walking style, and overall development. Assessment may include:
- Observing gait and posture, sometimes with video gait analysis
- Checking flexibility and strength in the feet and ankles
- Looking for signs of overpronation or uneven loading
- Discussing symptoms such as pain or tired legs
This helps determine whether flat feet are part of normal development or if intervention is needed.
What treatments are available for flat feet in children?
Most children with flat feet don’t need formal treatment. However, if pain or functional problems are present, a podiatrist may recommend:
- Footwear assessment: Supportive shoes with firm soles can help reduce strain.
- Orthotics: Custom or prefabricated orthotics provide extra arch support where required.
- Foot strengthening exercises: Targeted stretches and exercises can improve muscle function.
- Monitoring growth and posture to ensure problems don’t worsen.
If symptoms are linked to other conditions such as Sever’s disease or shin splints, these may be addressed as part of the treatment plan.
Can flat feet cause long-term issues?
Most flat feet in children are harmless, but untreated painful cases can contribute to:
- Ongoing heel or arch pain
- Poor biomechanics affecting sport and activity
- Knee, hip, or back discomfort from altered posture
- Early wear and tear on joints in later life
Early podiatry intervention helps reduce these risks by ensuring children develop healthy movement patterns.
When to book an appointment
If your child is experiencing pain, struggling with activity, or you’re concerned about their walking, booking a podiatry assessment is the best step forward.
Book an appointment with our children’s podiatrists to check your child’s feet, provide advice, and support their healthy growth.