Flatfoot is a condition that is considered normal in infancy. However, if the problem persists in childhood, it can lead to a number of orthopedic problems. While flatfoot in children usually decreases with growth, the problem that does not improve with age may need to be treated by specialist doctors. For this reason, the age-related type is important and may cause some pain.
The medical name of the problem, which is frequently encountered in childhood and seen as an orthopedic problem, is known as pes planus. In people with the problem, the arch of the foot is not developed and there is a flatness. For this reason, it mostly develops in infants during childhood. In cases where it does not develop, it can be treated with some exercise applications
What is Flatfoot in Children?
In the foot structure, there are 3 arches, namely arches, width and length. The arches form the arched structure in the foot. Among these, the medial longitudinal arch, which provides elastic connection and is formed by tendons, is seen as important. Any collapse here may cause orthopedic problems.
This problem, which can be commonly seen in children, improves with the emergence of the elastic structure with the advancement of age. In children in whom the arch of the foot does not develop, a flat foot appearance occurs. However, this problem may also occur as a result of its formation and then collapse due to a different reason.
What Causes Flatfoot in Children?
In children, this condition is mostly encountered in two different types. One of them is considered as flexible flatfoot. While the arch or pit can be seen under the foot while the child is sitting, the foot has a flat appearance.
There is no definite data on the cause of the problem. However, research on this subject suggests that genetic factors have an effect on this issue.
Some problems with the Achilles tendon and muscles can be among the causes of this problem. The Achilles tendon is an anatomical structure that connects the muscles in the calf to the bone in the heel.
The most important finding of this problem, which usually does not show any symptoms, is that the person's foot is flat and has no arch. In addition, some children may experience pain in the foot, calf, knee and hip joints. Generally, people with this problem get tired more quickly and more when walking compared to normal people.
How is flatfoot diagnosed?
If this problem is suspected, the patient should be examined by a specialist doctor and the problem should be diagnosed. In the physical examination performed by the doctor, the person's foot is examined and may be asked to walk in the specified positions.
In addition, the foot structure can be examined in detail with imaging techniques such as X-ray, MRI and CT. This condition, which can be seen in all infants, usually improves during childhood and with age.
However, failure to improve with age can lead to some problems and pain. If the problem is noticed by the family, it should be ensured that children are treated by applying to the pediatric orthopedics departments of hospitals without wasting time.
How to Treat Flatfoot in Children?
Treatment of flatfoot may differ according to the age of the person and the type of problem. If the person has a flexible flatfoot problem and does not experience intense pain, treatment is usually not considered necessary and some exercise applications can be done.
In children, arches that develop until the age of 11-12 may require a doctor's examination if they do not develop at a later age. However, surgical method, i.e. surgery, is not preferred and not recommended for children who do not experience serious pain and problems. Apart from surgical methods, one of the exercises applied is walking on tiptoe and exercises for Achilles stretching.
There are some non-surgical methods applied asflatfoot treatment in children . Foot arch supports and walking (orthotic) devices recommended by the doctor can be used to reduce the pain caused by the problem.
Orthopedic shoes that provide support to the foot structure may be recommended during childhood. Physical therapy applications performed by specialists help to alleviate the pain.
While it is recommended that children should not engage in running or heavy sports, less strenuous sports should be preferred. As more pressure is applied to the feet of overweight children, the severity of the pain may increase. For these children, weight loss under the supervision of a specialist doctor will help alleviate the pain.
Since the priority in treatments is to reduce the pain, surgical methods are usually not used. However, in cases of uncontrollable severe pain, surgery can be applied if the specialist deems it necessary.
Surgical treatment aims to eliminate anatomical problems such as shortness in the Achilles tendon, foot bone protrusion and bone fusion problems.
Is Flatfoot a Childhood Disease?
This condition, which is seen in the majority of infants, is considered normal for infants. With advancing age, the foot bones develop and the arch begins to form.
However, this problem is not only specific to children. This problem, which can start in childhood, can cause severe pain in later ages and adulthood.
It can be congenital or develop later and this condition is called acquired flatfoot. Its emergence with advancing age is seen as acquired. In addition, factors such as obesity and weight can cause excess pressure on the foot.