Flat Feet in Children

A flexible flatfoot is the most common presentation in children and describes a loss of the medial arch of the foot with valgus alignment of the heel on standing.

Often, it occurs on both feet and is visible when on tiptoes, because the arch is recreated and the heel swings into ‘Varus’.

Left: Photographs showing flexible flatfeet on standing with collapse of the medial arch of the foot and the heel in a valgus alignment (pointing away from the midline).

Right: Photographs showing the same feet on tiptoe stance with restoration of the arch of the foot and the heel tilting into Varus (towards the midline).

Flexible Flat Feet

Flexible flat feet are normal variants caused by increased flexibility of the joints and ligaments of the foot, present in approximately 90% of 1-year olds and up to 20% of adults. Ordinarily, they do not require treatment unless there is associated pain or aching in the arch of the foot and the ankle on prolonged standing or walking.

Tightness of the posterior group such as the Achilles tendon, calf muscles and hamstrings can also make the foot stiffer and cause pain as a result.

Treatment with arch supports in these circumstances can reduce these painful symptoms, although, it must be noted they do not alter the way the foot develops or affect the risk of future musculoskeletal problems.

If the flatfoot is rigid or painful symptoms persist despite treatment with arch supports and exercises, then the podiatrist will request a referral to a podiatric or orthopaedic consultant.

Our recommended appointment type is ‘Paediatric Foot Assessment’ £60.00.