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Flatfoot is one of the most common orthopedic concerns observed in children. It typically presents as the absence of the inner arch of the foot when weight-bearing (standing), an outward deviation of the heel when viewed from behind, and the entire sole making contact with the ground. This condition involves the bones and soft tissues of the foot and lower leg.
It is crucial to understand that flatfoot is a normal physiological finding in infants and young children, as all babies are born with flat feet. Therefore, parents should not be alarmed by the presence of flatfoot in very young children.
However, after a certain age, especially if there's a family history, the probability of developing flexible flatfoot increases. Its prevalence in the adult population is approximately 20-25%. Flexible flatfoot, which is more frequently seen in children, generally does not cause significant health issues.
While parents should avoid undue anxiety during the first five years, a period of rapid foot development, it is essential to consult an orthopedics and traumatology specialist for an accurate diagnosis, particularly to distinguish between flexible and rigid flatfoot.
Flatfoot in Children
It is crucial to understand that flatfoot is a normal physiological finding in infants and young children, as all babies are born with flat feet. Therefore, parents should not be alarmed by the presence of flatfoot in very young children.
However, after a certain age, especially if there's a family history, the probability of developing flexible flatfoot increases. Its prevalence in the adult population is approximately 20-25%. Flexible flatfoot, which is more frequently seen in children, generally does not cause significant health issues.
While parents should avoid undue anxiety during the first five years, a period of rapid foot development, it is essential to consult an orthopedics and traumatology specialist for an accurate diagnosis, particularly to distinguish between flexible and rigid flatfoot.