Flat Feet

Flexible flat foot, also known as pes planus, is a condition where the arch of the foot disappears when the foot comes into contact with the ground. As the arch disappears, the ankle turns or rolls inward, also called pronation. When a child is sitting or on their tiptoes the arch reappears.

Flexible flat foot is a common condition in children. In fact, four out of 10 children between the ages of 3 and 6 years old have flat feet. Generally, a flexible flat foot will improve as a child becomes older and the ligaments and muscles in the arch tighten. The condition is hereditary.

Symptoms

Some of the symptoms of flexible flat foot are:

• The disappearance of the arch when your child stands up
• Ankles roll inward when walking
• Pain over the arch or bottom of the foot, usually while walking or running
• Pain in the knee or limping due to pain after strenuous activity

Diagnosis

Diagnosing flexible flat foot is usually done by a physical examination of your child’s foot. The doctor can see if the arch is lower or gone while your child is standing, and then reappears when your child sits down or stands on their tiptoes.

Treatments Offered for Flat Feet

Shriners Hospitals for Children^® offers the following treatments for flexible flat feet, and treatment plans may vary depending upon the severity of the condition:

Exercises: Your child’s doctor may recommend stretching exercises for the heel cord.

Orthotics: In some cases orthotics, or shoe inserts, offer support and may relieve your child’s foot pain and fatigue. Inserts in your child’s shoes also decrease the amount of pronation.