Flat feet in children can be treated using a variety of methods, typically depending on the severity of the deformity. Very minor cases of pediatric flat feet are often not treated at all, and the child affected is allowed to grow out of the condition with no intervention. More serious cases of the problem are usually treated with the use of supportive shoes and inserts, along with calf muscle stretches to encourage the foot and leg to grow and develop in the desired manner. The most severe flat feet cases may be treated with surgical procedures, though it is relatively uncommon and the pros and cons of the surgery must be carefully considered by the doctor and the child's parents.
Symptoms of flat feet in children include a flat appearance of the arched portion of the foot as well as pain in the heel, ankle, and arch of the foot. This deformity can usually be detected between 2 and 3 years of age. If the child's pediatrician suspects this condition, it advisable to seek the assistance of a podiatrist for further treatment and therapy.
The vast majority of children affected by flat feet need no treatment at all. As the foot and ankle bones and muscles form, the deformity often goes away. Many children develop normally structured feet by adulthood and experience no adverse effects. In most cases, it is recommended that the child see a podiatrist at least once a year to determine if the condition is improving, or if medical intervention is needed.
Moderate cases of flat feet in children are usually treated with special shoes or shoe inserts designed to stabilize the weak muscles of the feet. The shoes and inserts typically have additional padding located at the arch of the foot. Foot orthotics are used for patients that require more support than what is offered by the more conservative treatment methods. These orthotics limit heel rolling, providing relief from the pain sometimes associated with this condition, and reduces the arch's ability to remain in the abnormal position.
Careful analysis is necessary before any type of surgical procedure is considered to treat severe flat feet in children. The doctor or podiatrist, as well the parents, will decide if the benefits of the surgery are worth the potential long term risks for the child's well being and health. Many doctors prefer to allow the bones and muscles to form naturally as opposed to medically modifying the area.