Ever wonder why your child looks like they are flatfooted or pigeon-toed? It all could be part of normal childhood foot development. I have a 5 year old and an infant so I have been watching feet grow and can sympathize with the concerned parent. Most have heard that flat feet are bad and can cause problems in the future. We all want what’s best for our children and many of us make huge sacrifices to achieve those goals.
Normal development:
Bowed legs are normal through the toddler years (2-4) and sometimes it is very pronounced earlier in that time frame and will slowly improve. Flat feet are common in early walkers and can stay flat through 6-8 years of age. At this time the knee/leg relationship becomes more like an adult, and children usually don’t grow out of a foot condition after about 8 years old.
Pediatric Flat Feet
Pediatric flat feet, also known as pes planus, is a common condition in which a child's foot appears to have little to no arch when standing. Unlike adults, it is completely normal for young children to have flat feet, as the arch typically develops between ages 3 and 6. Most children naturally develop an arch as their foot structures mature, and in many cases, flat feet do not cause any pain or functional limitations. However, in some instances, persistently flat feet can lead to potential complications or indicate underlying structural issues.
There are two primary types of pediatric flat feet: flexible and rigid. Flexible flat feet are the most common and occur when an arch is present when the child is sitting or standing on tiptoes but disappears when weight-bearing. This type is generally considered benign and often resolves without intervention. Rigid flat feet, conversely, maintain a flat appearance regardless of position and may be associated with more significant structural abnormalities or potential discomfort.
While most pediatric flat feet are asymptomatic, some children might experience symptoms such as foot fatigue, pain in the feet or legs, difficulty with physical activities, or an awkward walking pattern. Risk factors for persistent flat feet include obesity, family history of the condition, certain neurological disorders, and joint hypermobility. Pediatricians and orthopedic specialists typically monitor the development of a child's foot structure during routine check-ups and can recommend interventions if necessary.
Treatment for pediatric flat feet depends on the individual child's symptoms and specific condition. For most children with flexible, flat feet, no treatment is required, as the arch will likely develop naturally. In cases where symptoms persist or the condition appears more severe, interventions might include orthotic devices, specialized footwear, stretching exercises, or physical therapy. Surgical correction is extremely rare and typically reserved for children with rigid flat feet causing significant functional impairment or pain that does not respond to conservative treatments.
If you're looking for a podiatrist in Albuquerque who specializes in children's feet, we're here to help!
