Is Your Foot Flat?

Arch is the gap between the inner side of the foot and the ground when a person is standing. When the arch of the foot does not develop properly, it leads to flat foot. This condition can occur in one or both feet. So, a person with no arch is said to be flat footed.

Mostly all the babies are born flat footed, which is due to the deposition of fat. The arch of the foot develops when a child is around 5 years of age.

But in some cases the arch does not develop at all. Other causes of flat foot include injury, stress or normal ageing process in adults. Hereditary influence is also known. Temporary flat foot can also occur in pregnant women also due to increased elasticity during the period.

As such there are no symptoms for flat-footed kids and children do not have any problem with such feet. But in some cases children are not able to participate in certain physical activities and may also have some disabilities. However, these can be corrected by surgery.

Parents should not take it lightly when the child complains of pain or cramps in the feet, knees or legs. These pains are said to be growing pains but they are not. You must see a doctor as soon as possible. If the condition is ignored then your child’s problem would last throughout his or her life.

There are two types of flat foot. When the foot is flat in all positions whether the child sits or stands on heels. Second type is when the foot cannot be bent backwards.

Wetting the foot and then taking the footprint can do the diagnosis of the flat foot at home only.

Depending on the condition of the foot, various treatment options are present for the flat foot. Treatment is a must if the lower leg or knee pains or when the lower back is affected. Surgery is the normal choice of treatment.