Pediatric Flat Foot

We frequently see children referred for flatfoot by a pediatrician or brought in by a concerned parent. The general rule is reassuring: if a child has a flexible flatfoot that can be controlled with a true custom orthotic device — such as a UCBL (University of California Berkeley Labs) orthotic — along with some Achilles stretching, the child is simply monitored over the years. Only a small percentage of pediatric flatfoot deformities ever require surgery.

Flexible vs. Rigid Flatfoot

A flexible flatfoot forms an arch when the child rises onto the toes or sits with the foot hanging, and flattens again with standing. This type is common and usually painless. A rigid flatfoot stays flat in every position and can signal an underlying issue such as a tarsal coalition (an abnormal connection between two foot bones); these deserve closer evaluation and imaging.

When Treatment Is Needed

We consider treatment when a child has pain, fatigue, frequent tripping, uneven shoe wear, or difficulty keeping up with peers. Conservative care comes first:

• Custom orthotics (such as a UCBL) to support and align the foot
• Achilles and calf stretching to address a tight heel cord, a common driver of flatfoot pain
• Supportive, well-fitted shoes and activity adjustments

If a child continues to have pain despite these measures, surgical correction is discussed. Procedures are chosen to fit the child’s specific deformity and stage of growth, and are performed only by surgeons experienced in pediatric reconstruction.

Don’t Ignore a Child’s Foot Pain

Children rarely complain about their feet without reason. If your child has foot, heel, or leg pain, or you notice a flatfoot on only one side, an evaluation is worthwhile — early support is simple and effective.

For more information or to schedule an evaluation with a board-certified foot and ankle specialist, call (239) 430-3668 (FOOT) or book online at NaplesPodiatrist.com.

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Serving Southwest Florida since 2005, Family Foot & Leg Center has 9 convenient locations throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties — Naples, Estero, Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Port Charlotte, and Sarasota. We provide pediatric to geriatric foot and ankle care: ingrown toenails, heel pain, bunions, foot & ankle arthritis, plantar fasciitis, foot & ankle surgery, custom orthotics, and diabetic wound care — with in-office X-rays, diagnostic ultrasound, and minor surgical suites. Home of the Lam Minimally Invasive No-Scar Bunion Surgery. Same-day appointments and easy online scheduling.