Flat feet (clinically known as pes planus) are quite common. Flat feet occur when the arches of the foot are lower than normal or completely absent. Flat feet do not require treatment in the majority of cases. However, in some instances, flat feet can lead to discomfort, and walking, running, or even growing can all affect your child’s posture.
If your child’s feet appear flat when they stand, or if your child is complaining of pain in their feet or legs, it’s natural to feel concerned. The good news is that flat feet can be treated with adequate care.
At Adelaide Paediatric Physiotherapy, we treat pediatric flatfoot in kids in Dubai. Your child can develop healthy, comfortable feet, and we are here to help parents like you.
What is a Pediatric Flat Foot?
It is common for babies and toddlers to be flat-footed. Their foot arches have not yet developed, so flat feet are expected in young people. Most children develop foot arches as they grow, typically by age 6.
However, there are times when the arches don’t form, which can lead to:
1. Foot, ankle, or lower leg pain
2. Walking, running, or playing sports becomes a challenge.
3. Shoes are worn out unevenly.
4. Alterations in walking or posture changes
Two major categories of flat feet in children include:
1. Flexible Flat Feet: An arch appears when the child stands on the toes, but it disappears when the child stands normally. Flat feet of this type are common and are usually painless.
2. Rigid Flat Feet: The arch remains flat regardless of position, and the child may be limited in their movements or experience pain.
Knowing the type of flat feet your child has determines whether treatment is needed.
Common Causes of Flat Feet in Children
Several factors can lead to Pediatric Flat Foot for Kids in Dubai:
1. Genetics: Family history may contribute to the length of the arches. If you or someone close to you has flat feet, your child is more likely to have them as well.
2. Weak arches: Weak foot muscles are common in some kids. This can cause the arches to be less.
3. Injury or trauma: Injuries to the foot or ankle can lead to the development of arches.
4. Overweight: Children with above-normal weight are likely to place more pressure on the arches.
5. Medical conditions: The shape and structure of teeth may be affected by disorders of the skeletal or neuromuscular systems.
Knowing the cause can guide parents in the steps to take to address the situation.
How Parents Can Help
Most children with flat feet do not require treatment, but you can take steps to support your child’s foot health.
1. Encourage Foot Exercises
Engaging in simple foot exercises can help strengthen foot muscles and develop arches. Try the following:
1. Toe curls: Get your child to pick up small items with their toes. This helps develop their muscles.
2. Heel raises: Tiptoeing off the ground will strengthen the foot arch.
3. Foot stretches: Stretching helps improve the Achilles tendon’s flexibility.
2. Choose Supportive Footwear
Shoes can tremendously affect foot health. Look for the following:
1. Arch support: A small arch support can help ease the pain and discomfort.
2. Cushioning: Soft insoles help reduce impact and protect feet.
3. Flexibility: Shoes should flex at the toes, not in the middle of the foot.
3. Assess the Need for Orthotics
In some cases, a custom orthopedic device may help your child if they experience pain during functional activities or have specific structural concerns. A pediatric physiotherapist can help determine the necessity for orthotics.
4. Limit Impactful Activities
If your child complains of pain while participating in high-impact activities such as running or jumping, they may consider low-impact activities such as swimming or cycling.
5. Don’t Hesitate to Seek Professional Help
The importance of an early evaluation by a pediatric physiotherapist cannot be overstated. Early identification of concerns leads to the most effective treatment for your child and can help avoid long-term concerns related to posture or gait.
We conduct comprehensive assessments and develop individualized treatment strategies for pediatric flat foot in kids in Dubai at Adelaide Paediatric Physiotherapy. Ensuring that your child has the best foundation for healthy, strong feet is our priority, and this includes a combination of education, activities, and, when necessary, orthotics.
Most Commonly Asked Questions Regarding Children with Flat Feet
1. What is the appropriate age to begin worrying about your child ‘s flat feet?
In children under 6 years of age, flat feet are common. If your child is older, experiencing pain, and has difficulty walking and running, that is an indication to seek assistance from an expert.
2. Can flat feet lead to long-term issues?
Most flat feet in children are not serious. However, untreated rigid flat feet or flat feet that cause pain can lead to issues with posture, knee pain, and difficulties with physical activities in later years.
3. Are flat feet genetic?
Yes. Flat feet can be seen in families and are therefore genetic. If you have flat feet, your child is likely to have them too.
4. Do my child’s shoes need to be different from other children’s shoes?
Children’s shoes do not need to be different from other children’s shoes. However, supportive shoes with cushioning can be helpful.
5. When is it appropriate to take my child to physiotherapy?
If your child has complaints of pain that is persistent, or has issues with walking, running, or you observe abnormal posture or gait, you should see a pediatric physiotherapist.
Take the Next Step
Understandably, parents are concerned about their child’s flat feet. However, with the right care, like specific exercises, appropriate shoes, and direction from a professional, your child can have healthy feet.
If you are concerned about your child’s arches or if your child has foot pain, do not hesitate to contact us. We provide assessments, direction, and treatment at Dubai’s premier physiotherapy center for flat feet in children, Adelaide Paediatric Physiotherapy. Make an appointment today so your child can receive the help they need for healthy, pain-free feet!