Pediatric flat feet occur when the whole sole of your child’s foot makes contact with the ground. Also, flat feet arise when the foot’s arch either does not form or collapses. Flat feet are generally frequent in youngsters because their bones and joints are still relatively flexible. By the age of six, most youngsters have outgrown the condition. Even those who do not outgrow the condition (about 15%) may not necessarily require therapy. If your kid is in pain or suffering due to flat feet, it is highly recommended that you consult your New York podiatric surgeon for professional guidance and treatment.
How to treat flat feet in kids
Flat feet that are not causing difficulties normally do not require treatment. Children with flat feet should wear supportive, well-fitting shoes, but shoe inserts are unnecessary. They can do all that other youngsters can accomplish. Flat feet that cause discomfort or are associated with bone abnormalities or tight tendons may necessitate therapy.
Furthermore, therapy might involve arch support shoe inserts, physical therapy, specific exercises, casts, or, in rare cases, surgery. Children with flat feet should always consult an orthopedic healthcare professional specializing in bones and joints.
Surgical treatment for pediatric flat feet
Surgery to address flexible flatfoot in children is rarely necessary. Surgery may be suggested for a teenager with recurrent discomfort or if the flatfoot grows inflexible with time. Typically, surgery is used to establish arches in the feet by altering bones and extending tendons that may be too tight and causing discomfort.
The procedure is normally carried out in stages: After correcting one foot, a second procedure to repair the other foot is performed after several months of recovery. Surgery in which an artificial implant (made of metal or silicone) is put within the joint between the foot and ankle to form an arch has yet to be well examined in children and teenagers and should therefore be addressed with caution.
Outlook for children with flat feet
Children with flexible flat feet are more likely to outgrow the problem. When your child has a stiff, flat foot or the reason is an underlying ailment, their symptoms and the necessary therapy determine their prognosis. Treatment might be challenging when the cause is a degenerative condition and symptoms develop over time.
When surgery is required, the outlook is often positive. Exercising can help some people feel better about themselves. However, having flat feet may require a patient to avoid high-impact activities. Also, you should visit a specialist to identify the appropriate treatment strategy for you.
Flat feet arise when your child’s foot arch is small or missing, causing difficulty walking and occasionally discomfort. There are several reasons for flat feet; not all produce pain and symptoms. When the ailment appears in childhood, it normally disappears as you grow older.
If there is discomfort or an effect on your kid’s early life, they may require treatment. Foot orthotics and anti-inflammatory drugs are usually used. Also, they may need surgery in rare circumstances. Call Flex Foot and Ankle or book your consultation online to determine which flat feet treatments are ideal for your child.
