Flatfeet run in families and have a strong genetic component. Although poor shoe gear can contribute to the problem and make it worse, most of the time, foot structure is an inherited trait.
There are really two primary ways to address flatfeet. The first is making a custom orthotic to try and support the foot correctly. With a custom orthotic, we are trying to hold the heel in a neutral position and not let it go into valgus. The other primary place we are trying to support is the talonavicular joint so that the arch does not collapse.
One important aspect to using orthotics for flatfeet in children is that children must also incorporate achilles tendon stretching into their routine. This is because the achilles tendon is one of the primary deforming forces that make the flatfoot worsen over the years, and a tight achilles tendon can make the flatfoot more severe.
The second primary way flatfeet can be addressed is surgically. We have a step wise approach to flatfeet aand typically incorpate several different procedures into straightening the foot in children including an achilles tendon lengthening, an Evan's calcaneal osteotomy, a Kidner procedure to advance the posterior tibial tendon, and sometimes other ancillary procedures as they become necessary.
If you are having foot and ankle pain, call our Colorado Springs foot and ankle surgeon today at 719-488-4664, so we can help you!
