There are a million things to remember with children: meals, milestones, and so much more.That list doesn't include caring for your child's feet. Flat feet, on the other hand, should not be ignored.
When a child has flat feet, their entire foot is in contact with the ground. Pes planus, or "fallen arches," is a condition in which the foot arch fails to develop or collapses, resulting in flat feet. Because children's bones and joints are still pliable, flat feet are pretty common. It's common for children to outgrow it by age six. Treatment is rare, even among those who do not grow out of the condition (roughly 15%).
Consult a doctor if you suspect that your child has flat feet. Without consulting a pediatric podiatrist Doctor Sanjay Sarup, never try to treat the problem on your own!
Flat feet can have a wide range of causes. Some children, particularly those who are "double-jointed" or have hypermobility, are born with the disorder as an isolated trait. As a result of another genetic condition, some people are born with flat feet. Others become afflicted gradually.Obesity, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, feet or ankles injuries, and aging increase the likelihood of developing flat feet.
Flat feet are rarely accompanied by symptoms other than the physical appearance of the foot. There are no symptoms in this situation. Flat feet are a common visual cue that most people are familiar with. There is little to no arch visible as the foot rests flat on the ground. You may see the child's outer toes, but not the big toe, if you're standing behind them.
One or more of the following signs and symptoms may be present in children who have flat feet:
Make an appointment with a paediatric podiatrist if your child exhibits signs and symptoms.
An examination of your child's foot by the podiatrist will help determine if they suffer from pediatric flat feet. In addition, the doctor checks the child's range of motion and observes them as they walk around. Your podiatrist may also examine the lower leg and possibly the hip to determine the underlying cause. Doctors may order diagnostic images like x-rays or CT scans to determine the extent of your child's illness.
Various non-surgical options are available if your child's condition is symptomatic and treatment is needed.
Even though most cases of paediatric flat feet do not necessitate surgical intervention, some do. Deformity severity and the underlying cause of a child's condition are essential considerations.
The following non-surgical options may be recommended by doctors for children who are suffering from pain due to flat feet, including:
According to most studies, children with flat feet can lead every day, healthy lives. Using arch supports, wearing supportive shoes, stretching, and resting, when necessary, can help alleviate occasional foot pain in children.