Most individuals experience no symptoms associated with their flat feet. But some individuals with flat feet experience pain in their feet and ankles, particularly in the heel and arch areas. This pain typically worsens with activity and loading on your feet.
When are flat feet problematic that warrants treatment?
- When you experience pain and impaired function. This applies not just to flat feet, but to all types of feet!
- People without flat feet initially who develop the condition during adulthood. Due to an injury or years of wear-and-tear, the arch of the feet progressively gets flatter as the tendons and ligaments around the foot and ankle gets damaged and weakened. As the severity increases, arthritis may develop in the foot.
- Children with pain in their feet and lower limbs with accompanying flat feet
Children’s / Paediatic flat feet
It is normal for children to have flat feet at an early age. This is due to the incomplete bone development, weak ligaments and low muscle tone in the early years. This gradually strengthens and improves over time as the child advances in age. Due to this, almost all children’s feet appear to be flat until they are 3-4 years old. Full development of the feet is achieved around the age of 9-10.
When should I be concerned for my child?
If the answer is yes to any of the questions below, it is worthwhile to schedule an appointment to see us for a thorough assessment:
- Does your child have pain in the feet, legs or hips?
- Does your child complain of tired feet and legs that impairs their activities?
- Does your child trip or fall often while walking?
- Does your child’s foot shape and structure differ significantly between left and right feet?
