First and foremost flatfeet can be normal as children grow. Infants and toddlers are especially flexible and tend to appear with feet rolled in and pointed outward. As children grow and reach school age and feet remain flattened an evaluation from a podiatrist is warranted. Children often complain of foot pain with activity as well as general leg fatigue. When evaluating a flat foot, points of concern include stiff feet, painful feet with walking and/or activity, a tight Achilles tendon, and very severe flat feet. In these cases treatment can include physical therapy, orthotics (custom and/or over the counter), and possibly surgery in severe cases.
Physical therapy is meant to introduce a stretching routine to both the child and parent. Stretching the Achilles tendon can mean the difference between and painful flatfoot and a healthy pain free flatfoot into adult life. It is important to incorporate stretching into everyday routine.
Orthotics provide support for feet and allow for improved function and ultimately reduce pain and prevent surgery. Orthotics are not corrective. Orthotics simply support, decrease and/or prevent symptoms and improve quality of life. Custom orthotics can be costly especially in growing children. In many cases over the counter support is sufficient, however in severe cases custom orthotics are the best option.
As far as surgery goes it left for a last resort. When painful flat feet interfere with walking, running, and athletic activities and conservative measures have been exhausted surgical intervention is considered. Not only eliminating current symptoms and returning a child to pain free activity, surgical intervention also prevents the onset of symptoms and potential disability in adult life.
When in doubt seek a professional opinion. My goal is to keep your child active and healthy. My motto is “Keep Kids, Kids”. Treatment plans are comprehensive but also realistic for active children and busy parents.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
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