Flat feet, commonly referred to as “fallen arches,” are a deformity caused by collapsed arches and typically develop during the early school years, which is why prevention is extremely important. They occur due to weak muscles and ligaments, as the foot is composed of 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Flat feet are a normal and physiological condition in children up to 18 months of age, and according to some experts, even up to five years. Although flat feet are considered a deformity, aside from the aesthetic concerns, they generally do not affect mobility or the foot’s overall function. This condition is most often discovered during mandatory routine medical checkups for preschool children.
There are two types of flat feet:
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Rigid flat feet
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Flexible flat feet
The difference is that with flexible flat feet, the arch appears when the child stands on their toes, but disappears when standing flat on the ground. With rigid flat feet, the arch is absent regardless of whether the child stands on toes or on the entire foot.
Flat feet can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired. Acquired flat feet most often result from underdeveloped muscles during the period when children should be walking independently and bearing weight on their feet. Instead, some parents carry their children too often, unaware that this can lead to issues such as flat feet. Childhood obesity can also contribute to the development of flat feet. Parents also commonly struggle with choosing the right footwear and correct shoe size for their child.
Parents can check for flat feet at home by creating a footprint with paint or water. Have the child step onto white paper after coating their foot in paint or moistening it with water. If the imprint shows no visible arch, it’s best to consult a physician and immediately begin corrective exercises.
Exercises to help correct flat feet can be done at home or outdoors, and some include:
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Walking on tiptoes
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Walking on heels
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Walking on the outer edge of the feet
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Walking on a textured surface
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Rolling a spiky massage roller under the feet
Prevention of any health issue or deformity is key. With flat feet, early detection is important, but parents should also understand that correcting this condition requires patience and consistency.