Flat Foot in Children (Pes Planus) Treatment & Therapy

Pediatric flat foot, also known as pes planus or fallen arches, is a common condition where the arches of the feet are lower than usual, causing the entire sole of the foot to come into contact with the ground. The condition occurs when the arches of the feet collapse or fail to develop properly during childhood.

While it’s normal for infants and toddlers to have flat feet due to the presence of excess fat pads, most children develop arches by the age of six. However, some children continue to have flat feet into adolescence and adulthood, which may require intervention by a podiatry specialist if the condition causes them pain or discomfort.

At UFIT Podiatry in Singapore, we specialise in providing comprehensive care for pediatric flat feet, offering advanced treatment options to ensure optimal foot development and function.

Symptoms of Flat Foot in Children

Common symptoms of pediatric flat feet include:

Withdrawing From Physical Activities

Discomfort from flat feet can make play painful for children, causing them to avoid physical activities. This change in behaviour often signals underlying pain.

Outward Tilt at the Heel

When the arch collapses, the heel often compensates by tilting outwards. This altered alignment can cause discomfort and indicate pes planus.

Pain or Difficulty While Moving

A flattened arch can lead to inefficient foot mechanics, causing pain and making movement challenging for children.

Worn Out Shoes

Pediatric flat foot changes how weight is distributed across the sole. This can cause uneven and premature wear on shoes, suggesting that your child might need pes planus treatment.

Falls Regularly

Reduced arch support can compromise balance and stability, making children more prone to tripping and falling.

Asymmetrical Posture

A collapsed arch in one or both feet can affect a child's overall body alignment, creating a noticeable postural imbalance.

Complains of Achy Feet and Leg Pain

Persistent aches in the feet and legs, especially after activity, are common among children with flat foot.

Genetic Factors

If a child’s parents or grandparents have flat feet, they may inherit a foot structure predisposing them to it. This can influence arch development.

Weak Foot Muscles

Insufficient strength in the muscles and ligaments supporting the arch can lead to it collapsing. This directly affects arch support.

Joint Hypermobility

Overly flexible joints allow the foot to flatten more easily under weight-bearing. This reduces crucial arch support and stability.

Excess Body Weight

Increased body weight places greater stress on a child's developing feet and arches. This additional strain can contribute to pediatric flat foot development.

Bone Abnormalities

Abnormal bone formation or alignment in the foot from birth can prevent proper arch development. This structural issue may result in flat feet in children.

Injury or Trauma

A significant injury to the foot or ankle, such as a fracture or sprain, can permanently alter its structure. This disruption can hinder normal arch development.

Our Approach to Flat Foot Therapy

At UFIT Podiatry, we offer a comprehensive approach to treating pediatric flat feet, focusing on personalized care and advanced treatment options:

Step 1: Thorough Assessment

We conduct a detailed evaluation to assess the severity of the flat feet and identify any contributing factors.

Step 2: Custom Management Plans

Based on the assessment, we develop a tailored management plan that may include custom 3D printed insoles and SMO (Supramalleolar Orthotics) to provide optimal support and alignment for the feet.

Step 3: Expert Care

Our experienced podiatrists specialise in recommending and fitting orthotic devices, ensuring proper alignment and comfort for children with flat feet.

Step 5: Supramalleolar Orthotics

For severe cases, supramalleolar orthotics provide the maximum external support and allow full functionality.

UFIT Podiatry 3D printing custom insoles

Step 4: Custom Orthotics

Custom orthotic devices are designed and fitted to provide optimal support, correct foot mechanics, and reduce strain on the arches. These orthotics are created based on precise measurements and tailored to the patient’s specific needs.

Step 6: Family Education

We provide education and guidance to parents and caregivers on proper foot care, footwear choices, and preventive measures to support healthy foot development in children.

Our Approach to Flat Foot Therapy

At UFIT Podiatry, we offer a comprehensive approach to treating pediatric flat feet, focusing on personalized care and advanced treatment options:

Step 1: Thorough Assessment

We conduct a detailed evaluation to assess the severity of the flat feet and identify any contributing factors.

Step 2: Custom Management Plans

Based on the assessment, we develop a tailored management plan that may include custom 3D printed insoles and SMO (Supramalleolar Orthotics) to provide optimal support and alignment for the feet.

Step 3: Expert Care

Our experienced podiatrists specialise in recommending and fitting orthotic devices, ensuring proper alignment and comfort for children with flat feet.

Step 4: Custom Orthotics

Step 5: Supramalleolar Orthotics

For severe cases, supramalleolar orthotics provide the maximum external support and allow full functionality.

Step 6: Family Education

We provide education and guidance to parents and caregivers on proper foot care, footwear choices, and preventive measures to support healthy foot development in children.

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What to expect on your first visit

FULL BODY ASSESSMENT

We recognise the interconnectedness of musculoskeletal health, so we assess your entire body, not just your feet. We also focus on vital health indicators impacting your lower limbs, like circulation, nerve function and alignment.

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY

We use cutting-edge diagnostic tools to get real-time insights into your soft tissue, joints and structures to provide a fast and accurate diagnosis.

DETAILED REPORT

Post-assessment, you will receive clear and comprehensive reports detailing our findings. This will allow you to make informed decisions on your treatment plan.

TREATMENT PLAN

Together with you, we formulate a comprehensive and personalised treatment plan that suit your goals and preferences.

Lewis Nurney

Lewis is a highly experienced podiatrist with over 5 years of practice in Singapore, bringing his expertise to UFIT's comprehensive Circle of Care. As Head of Podiatry at UFIT Club Street, he specialises in sports podiatry, innovative orthotics for adults and children (including 3D-printed custom insoles, Paediatric AFOs and SMOs for pediatric flat feet), and minimally invasive procedures.

A first-class honours graduate from the University of Huddersfield (UK), Lewis holds dual certifications in Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), Diagnostic Ultrasound and Running Gait analysis. Previously with East Coast Podiatry, he now provides patient-centred care at UFIT, specialising in non-surgical management of conditions like Foot Pain, Plantar Fasciitis and Achilles Tendinopathy in both children and adults, ultimately focused on alleviating discomfort and restoring optimal foot function.

Elliot Yeldham

Elliott is a dedicated podiatrist with over 7 years of healthcare experience, gained in both the UK's National Health Service (NHS) and private practice. He holds an Honours degree in Podiatry from Cardiff Metropolitan University (Wales), and brings a wealth of expertise to Singapore.

Specialising in Musculoskeletal (MSK) podiatry, Elliott's interests include sport podiatry and the management of gait abnormalities in both adults and children. He is also recognised for his skill and patient-focused approach in minimally invasive procedures for ingrown toenails and wart removal. Committed to a patient-centred and multidisciplinary model, Elliott actively stays informed of the latest healthcare advancements through clinical research and international conferences.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Flat Foot

What are the long-term effects of untreated flat foot in children?

Untreated flat foot in children can lead to persistent flat foot problems, such as pain and altered gait. It can also potentially affect the knees, hips, and back over time. People with flat feet may also face increased risk of developing conditions like bunions or hammertoes later in life.

How is pediatric flat foot diagnosed?

Pediatric flat foot is typically identified through a comprehensive physical examination, gait analysis, and assessment of your child's foot structure while standing and walking. A podiatrist will evaluate arch flexibility and overall lower limb alignment.

When should I seek treatment for my child’s flat feet?

Many infants and toddlers have flexible flat feet that resolve naturally as they grow. However, if the arches do not develop by around age six, or if symptoms appear, intervention may be beneficial.

Can flat foot in children go away on their own?

Many infants and toddlers have flexible flat feet that resolve naturally as they grow. However, if the arches do not develop by around age six, or if symptoms appear, intervention may be beneficial.

Can flat feet in children be treated without surgery?

In most cases, pediatric flat foot can be effectively managed without surgery. Non-surgical pes planus treatment options often include custom foot orthotics, footwear adjustments, and specific exercises designed to improve foot mechanics.

How can physical therapy help with flat feet in children?

Physical therapy focuses on strengthening the intrinsic foot muscles and improving ankle stability. It often involves targeted exercises to enhance arch development and promote a healthier gait.

Are there any exercises to help strengthen my child's flat feet?

Yes, simple exercises like picking up marbles with their toes, calf raises, and walking on tiptoes can help. Where possible and safe, encourage walking barefoot on varied surfaces to contribute to strengthening your child's developing feet.

Should my child wear special shoes for flat feet?

While special shoes aren't always necessary, supportive footwear with good arch support and a firm heel counter is beneficial. A podiatrist can advise on the appropriate footwear for your child’s developmental stage.

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Treatment for Flat Foot in Children

What is Pediatric Flat Foot in Children?

Symptoms of Flat Foot in Children

Withdrawing From Physical Activities

Outward Tilt at the Heel

Pain or Difficulty While Moving

Worn Out Shoes

Falls Regularly

Asymmetrical Posture

Complains of Achy Feet and Leg Pain

Causes of Pediatric Flat Foot (Pes Planus)

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