Flat Feet: Don’t Panic

Is it normal?

For children under 5–7 years of age, a flat foot is a norm, but the orthopedic pathology is either congenital or arises after trauma or neurology. In the first case, when diagnosed with clubfoot or "horse foot", the child needs treatment and further monitoring by an orthopedist. In the second case, the flattened arch of the foot does not require any medical intervention. Generally speaking, it passes on its own before age 8. Children over age 7 often have flat feet formed "under pressure" by extra weight. This is why an active child "runs away" from flat feet with a greater probability than an idle and passive one. The cause of the disease may also be pathological dysplasia (increased elasticity) ligaments.

When to see a doctor

Flat feet should be treated only=== when...