Did you know that babies are usually born with flat feet? Their chubby little feet have padding to protect them, which means that there is no arch on the bottom of the feet. But don’t fret! It’s usually a problem that begins to resolve itself as they begin to stand or walk. As their feet begin to strengthen, the tissues along the bottom of the feet begin to tighten and an arch forms.

The problem, however, occurs when the arch does not form. Then, the child has pediatric flatfoot. Depending on the severity of the issue, the child may outgrow it or it may develop into a painful problem. The flexible type of flatfoot can be treated more easily, but a rigid flatfoot issue would require more corrective treatment. Treating this early would be beneficial to the child, especially if the child experiences pain or discomfort while walking, cramping, or in-toeing.

If there is no pain, your child may grow out of it, and no treatment is necessarily required. On the other hand, if there is pain or discomfort, it is best to have feet assessed as soon as the problem is detected. Our podiatrist may suggest one of the following treatments:

• Orthotic Insert, shoes, or devices– for flexible flat feet, shoe inserts can help support the feet at the arches. Custom shoes or orthotic devices may be required to support the arches. Rigid flat feet can be affected worse by shoe inserts, so it is not recommended.
• Stretching exercises – if the flat feet are caused by tight heel cords, special stretching exercises may be required to lengthen the heel cord.
• Surgery – when no other treatments work, surgery may be required, especially in truly rigid flat feet.

Leaving painful flatfoot untreated could lead to worse problems later, such as arthritis. If your toddler seems to be complaining of pain, refuses to walk, or wants to be picked up all the time, it’s possible that they may have foot pain such as flat feet. Make and appointment to come see us at Texas Foot Works. Dr. Jonathan M. Kletz can assess your child’s feet to find the right solution for relief. Make an appointment today at any of our Abrams (Dallas), Athens, and Gun Barrell City, TX offices.