Flat-Footed Kids, Custom Orthotics, and Growing Pain-Free
Are flat feet really a problem?
Sometimes. Ultimately, the issue comes down to what parents do and how kids grow. While it’s true that most children have flat feet when they’re born, and arches typically develop around age six, approximately two out of ten children still have flat feet when they reach adulthood. And in certain cases, younger kids who don’t address the issue might experience problems with stability, mobility, or the potential for future injuries later on.
Cypress Foot & Ankle Center wants you to know that you’ve got options. For this blog post, we’ll be covering one of those options in detail: custom orthotics, inserts that play a crucial role in promoting proper foot function and helping kids with flat feet stay healthy as they grow.
Which Flat Feet Does Your Child Have?
In total, there are four categories of flat feet. For now, we’ll be considering two that relate directly to younger people:
- Flexible Flat Feet: Usually present during childhood, this is the most common form flat feet take. Arches are visible when a kid isn’t standing, but they disappear when weight is put on the feet.
- Rigid: Typically seen in adolescent years, this variant means that there’s no visible arch when someone is sitting or standing, affecting both feet and worsening over time. Tendon, ligament, and pain issues are more likely.
Flat Feet and Growing Kids
When your foot develops in the ordinary way, the plantar arch does take time to form, and the heel also takes time to start turning outwards. To find out if flat feet are an issue, consider whether…
- A younger child is struggling more than usual with walking, especially due to pain.
- The planar arch is not apparent when a child stands on tiptoes.
In each of these scenarios, you might want to consider getting a pair of custom orthotics.
The Benefits of Orthotics for Growing Flat Feet
Orthotics, custom-made inserts that are placed inside shoes, can provide support and stability for flat feet. By addressing the underlying biomechanical issues, orthotics can help:
- Reduce pain and discomfort: Orthotics can alleviate pain and discomfort associated with flat feet, allowing children to participate in activities without limitations.
- Improve foot function: By providing support and stability, orthotics can help improve foot function and reduce the risk of future complications, such as ankle instability or arthritis.
- Correct alignment: Orthotics can help correct misalignments in the foot and ankle, promoting proper foot development and reducing the risk of aches and pains later on.
Still have questions about flat foot problems or pediatric podiatry? We’d be happy to answer them! Feel free to get in touch if you’d like to learn more.
Whether you’re experiencing pain, concerned about a deformity, or simply seeking preventative care, Cypress Foot and Ankle Center offers a wide range of services to address all your foot and ankle needs. While we focus on nonsurgical treatments, we also provide advanced surgical procedures when necessary, using the latest technologies to ensure superior outcomes. If you’re in need, call (281) 377-4040, or contact us online today!
