Worried that your Child could have Flat Feet?

Flat foot is described as the flattening of the arch between the toes and heel during standing or walking. Flat feet are a normal occurrence in babies and young children. This is because they are born with a layer of fat in their arch areas to enable development of bones. These in turn will help in standing and walking. 

The layer of fat usually disappears when your toddler crosses the 2-3 year mark, alongside bowed legs and knocked knees.

Worried that Your Child Could Have Flat Feet?

Flat feet can become permanent following a tightening of the Achilles tendon. In other cases, it is considered a hereditary condition. At ages 4-5, as you track your child’s development, you can have your child evaluated by a paediatrician to determine whether he has permanent flat feet or not.

The good news is that it isn’t considered a severe condition.

How to Handle Flat-Footed Children

Children with flat feet should wear shoes that have proper arch support. In rare cases, flat feet have been known to cause foot pain and leg cramps. In such, though not prevalent, regular foot massages would be useful to alleviate any such pains.

Disclaimers:

#Please note that development differs from one child to another. 

#Content intended for educational purposes only, and should not be substituted for medical advice from your doctor.

Last reviewed January 2019

Sources: parents, mayoclinic

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