As they take their children back-to-school shopping, parents would do well to consider the importance of foot health in children. Flat feet are a common condition that affects many children and is characterized by an abnormal collapse of the arch while standing. To detect flat feet, keep an eye out for these early signs: a flat foot arch at age 5 or older, heels that tend to angle outward with a bowing of the Achilles tendon when seen from the back, early leg fatigue or clumsiness during activity, or foot, knee, or ankle pain during or after activity or during the middle of the night. Children are also more likely to have flat feet if their parents are flat-footed.
It’s important to determine whether or not your child is flat-footed as it may affect your child’s mobility as he or she ages. To learn more, speak to Dr. Carl Ingrassia of Fords Foot and Ankle Care. Dr. Ingrassia will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
What are Flat Feet?
Flat feet are a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. Standing about 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arch never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
- Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
- Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
- Knees – if you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms:
- Pain around the heel or arch area
- Trouble standing on the tip toe.
- Swelling around the inside of the ankle.
- Flat look to one or both feet.
- Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment:
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
For more information about Flat Feet, follow the link below.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Fords, NJ. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.