What Is It?

All feet have a particular shape, which depends on the arch of the foot. The arch also helps you balance. In other words, a normal foot is slightly raised between the toes and heels.

Flatfoot is also called fallen arches. This common problem is usually hereditary. But, in adults, flatfoot can be caused by a foot injury as well as obesity.

If your child is flatfoot, the arch in his foot is probably still very weak and collapses under his weight. This causes the entire sole to touch the ground. As he learns how to walk, his arch will get stronger and the problem can be fixed.

What Would You Notice?

If you are flatfooted, one or both your feet will be abnormally flat. Apart from that, your feet will constantly be tired, even if you walk for short distances. Your calf muscles will also become tight and the flexibility of your feet will reduce.

If your child is flatfooted but doesn't experience any pain or discomfort, then you have nothing to worry about. This is a common problem among children. As she grows up, this problem will slowly go away.

But, if she complains of pain and sharp prick-like sensations in her feet, visit an orthopaedic doctor. In severe cases, doctors may advise surgery to correct the problem.

Can It Be Fixed?

Your flatfoot problem can be reduced to an extent. You could wear special shoes with arch inserts. These inserts raise your arch to an extent and give your foot some support.

It might not be comfortable at first, but these shoes help make the mechanics of your foot normal. So the problem will not worsen. However, without surgery, it will be difficult to regain a normal arch.

Also, avoid walking long distances or standing upright for too long. The constant pressure could cause a dislocation.

(With inputs from Dr. Pervez R. Sidhwa, Orthopaedic Surgeon)