Childrens Foot Problems

 
During development it is normal for children to have flat feet for a period of time. From the time they are born up to about 5 years of age there are many changes taking place with their feet and lower limbs, however a Podiatrist can identify what is normal for their age and what is not.

When a child first walks, their feet appear very flat for a few reasons. Firstly, they still have a lot of fatty tissue around their arch, which will in time decrease with activity, and secondly, their foot is still twisted slightly so when they stand their foot will roll inwards to get onto the ground. As they get older, up to age 5, things change, and eventually the foot should become 'normal' in appearance. It is important to remember that there is a hereditary factor with foot type and therefore if problems have been experienced by blood relatives it may be worthwhile having a professional opinion to assess and possibly reduce the risk of future problems for young family members.

Some Tips For Parents

Let your children stand up and walk when they are ready. Encouraging your child to walk too early can cause bowed legs because the bones will still be too supple.

When children first walk it is fine for them to have no shoes. This enhances motor development though nerves in the foot. Obviously if they are outside, it is good to wear shoes for protection.

Using "Pushers", as toys may be harmful as it encourages toe walking and affects balance.

The best footwear for children are shoes with a relatively firm heel cup, or heel counter. Either a sandle with a back on it or a high cut boot.

Be aware of your child's behaviour. If your child is underactive, ie; would prefer to stay inside rather than play  outside or if they complain or become cranky after periods of walking ie; shopping. This maybe because the child has "growing pains" or pain when walking due to a biomechanical fault.

If you are worried about the development of your child's legs and feet, contact us for specialist advice about their biomechanical development.

If you have ever been told, "Don't worry about his/her flat feet, they will grow out of it", and a proper evaluation was not undertaken to come to this conclusion, then you have been given poor advice.

If every child ‘grew out’ of their flat feet then why are there so many adults with flat feet?