Flat Feet in Children: What’s Normal and When to Seek Help?
By Child OrthoCare
As parents, it’s natural to worry about your child’s development—especially when it comes to how they walk. One of the most common concerns we hear is: “My child has flat feet. Should I be worried?”
Let’s break it down and help you understand what’s normal, what’s not, and when it’s time to visit a pediatric orthopedic specialist.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flat feet, also known as pes planus, occur when the arch of the foot is either very low or absent, causing the entire foot to touch the ground when standing.
In infants and toddlers, flat feet are perfectly normal. That’s because the foot arch hasn’t fully developed yet. Most children develop noticeable arches by the age of 5–6.
When Flat Feet Are Normal
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Your child is under 6 years old
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Flat feet are flexible (arches appear when on tiptoes)
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No pain or difficulty walking/running
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Family history of flat feet
In these cases, no treatment is needed—just regular monitoring.
When to Be Concerned
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Pain in feet, legs, knees, or lower back
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Stiff or rigid feet
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Uneven wear on shoes
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Frequent tripping or clumsiness
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Arch never forms beyond age 6–7
These signs may indicate rigid flat feet or underlying issues like tendon problems or neurological conditions, and they should not be ignored.
Diagnosis & Treatment
At Child OrthoCare, we use physical examination, gait analysis, and X-rays (if needed) to assess the condition.
Treatment options may include:
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Custom orthotic insoles
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Stretching and strengthening exercises
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Physical therapy
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Rarely, surgical intervention (for severe or painful cases)
When in Doubt, Get It Checked Out
Flat feet are often harmless—but if your child is in pain or struggling with walking, it’s time to consult a pediatric orthopedic specialist. Early evaluation can prevent long-term issues and ensure healthy foot development.
Why Choose Child OrthoCare?
At Child OrthoCare, we specialize in evaluating children’s bone and joint health with a gentle, parent-friendly approach. Dr. Nargesh Agarwal brings years of experience in distinguishing between benign conditions like growing pains and more serious orthopedic concerns.
We aim to give you peace of mind while ensuring your child gets the care they truly need.
