InsaneJournal

Flat feet in youngsters is commonly difficult to identify in the early months, since the true shape of the foot is often hidden by baby fat. As months go by and as the toddler enters walking stage, the condition becomes apparent. As the child gets older, it is normal for an arch to appear between 4 and 6 years of age, commonly being developed by walking barefoot on irregular terrain. This develops ligaments, muscles, and tendons. If a normal arch fails to appear during this stage of development, then it could become necessary to investigate using orthotic shoe insoles to keep lower body or back issues from emerging later in life.

The excessive rolling inwards of the ankles and feet, also known as pronation, and resulting collapse of the arches– is found in up to seventy percent of the population. Over a period of time, excessive pronation in addition to foot pain will also cause back problems, and also leg problems. Many people do not comprehend how proper foot, leg and back alignment are associated, and it is important to remedy any foot problems such as flat feet in children to prevent further lower body health complications.

It is advisable to identify flat feet in children as soon as possible to prevent ensuing complications later in life. While sometimes it is a normal part of aging, it is possible for adults of any age to develop flat feet. Flat feet can be caused for reasons such as injury, illness, or pregnancy, and can be temporary or permanent, depending on the reason. Excessive weight-bearing can also cause flat feet in children or adults.

A good way to test whether an arch is being developed is by using a wet blotter. With this method, you make a footprint of your child’s damp foot on colored paper. Then you check whether the footprint leaves a visible gap left by the foot arch. It is also possible to do this on a beach, or in a sandbox by observing the foot impression, however the blotter test is much more helpful. Another indication of flat feet is when the child complains about his or her calf muscles or ankles ache after walking for a period of time, as flat feet during childhood can cause extra strain on ankles and calves to counteract the lack of foot arches. In some cases, a child may walk on the outer edges of his feet, and this is often confused with bowleggedness, when in reality it is a consequence of over-pronation caused by flat feet.

Foot conditions such as flat feet in children can be corrected to prevent serious complications like plantar fasciitis and avoid damage to ankles, calves, or lower back. A good measure of prevention is through the use of orthotic shoe insoles. A foot specialist (podiatrist) should be able to examine the symptoms and recommend suitable treatment, which could include orthotic shoe insoles or foot exercises, according to your particular situation. In many cases, standard orthotic shoe insoles products available at retail stores or on the Internet, can produce excellent results, without the need for high-priced custom-made orthotic shoe insoles or other aids available via prescription.

The most important thing to keep in mind when it comes to flat feet in children is that early detection can avert many serious problems to other body parts such as the knees and lower back with aging. It is easy to treat flat feet in children through readily available and affordable orthotic shoe insoles.