If your child has flat feet, foot pain, or difficulty walking comfortably, expert evaluation can help ensure healthy development. At our practice serving Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky and Cincinnati, Ohio, Dr. Bryan Fallis, DPM, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon, provides specialized care for pediatric flatfoot (fallen arches).
Flatfoot is common in young children and often resolves naturally, but in some cases, it can lead to pain, imbalance, or difficulty with physical activities. Dr. Fallis offers comprehensive diagnosis and personalized treatment plans—ranging from observation and orthotics to advanced surgical care when necessary—to support proper foot development and long-term comfort.
What is Flatfoot?
Flatfoot, also known as “fallen arches” or Pes planus, is a deformity in children’s feet where the arch that runs along the sole of the foot collapses to the ground or is not formed at all. Flatfoot is normal in the first few years of life as the arch of the foot usually develops between the age of 3 and 5 years.
What are the Types of Flatfoot?
Flatfoot can be rigid or flexible. Flexible flatfoot usually resolves without any treatment needed unless pain is involved. Rigid flatfoot, however, can cause joint pain in the leg when walking or aching pain in the feet and usually requires intervention.
What are the Causes and Risk Factors for Flatfoot?
Pediatric flatfoot is a common condition that can run in families. It is often caused by loose connections between the joints and excess baby fat deposits between the foot bones which make the entire foot touch the floor when your child stands up. A rare condition called tarsal coalition can also cause flatfoot. In this condition, two or more bones of the foot join abnormally causing stiff and painful flat feet.
What are the Symptoms of Flatfoot?
Children with flatfoot deformity may have one or more of the following signs and symptoms:
- Inside arch of the foot is flattened
- Heel bone may be turned outward
- Inner aspect of the foot may appear bowed out
- Pain in the foot, leg, knee, hip or lower back
- Pain in the heels, causing difficulty with walking/running
- Discomfort while wearing shoes
- Inability to bear weight on the affected foot
- Tired, achy feet with prolonged standing or walking
How is Flatfoot Diagnosed?
Your doctor will perform a physical examination of your child’s foot and observe your child in standing and sitting positions. If an arch forms when your child stands on his toes, the flatfoot is flexible and no further tests or treatment are necessary. If pain is associated with the condition or if the arch does not form on standing on the toes, then X-rays are ordered to assess the severity of the deformity. A computed tomography (CT) scan is ordered if tarsal coalition is suspected. If tendon injury is presumed, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is recommended.
What are the Treatment Options for Flatfoot?
If your child does not exhibit any symptoms, your doctor may monitor your child’s condition as he/she grows to assess for any changes. If, however, your child has symptoms, your doctor may suggest some of the following non-surgical treatments:
- Activity modification: Avoid participating in activities that cause pain such as walking or standing for long periods of time.
- Orthotic devices: Your surgeon may advise the use of custom-made orthotic devices that are worn inside the shoes to support the arch of the foot.
- Physical therapy: Stretching exercises of the heel can provide pain relief.
- Medications: Pain-relieving medications such as NSAIDs can help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Shoe modification: Wearing a well-fitting, supportive shoe can help relieve aching pain caused by flatfoot.
Surgery is rarely needed to treat pediatric flatfoot; however, if conservative treatment options fail to relieve your child’s symptoms, surgery may be necessary to resolve the problem. Depending on your child’s condition, various procedures may be performed including tendon transfers, tendon lengthening, joint fusion, and implant insertion.
Why Choose Dr. Bryan Fallis for Flatfoot Treatment in Ft. Mitchell, KY & Cincinnati, OH
When it comes to your child’s foot health, choosing an experienced specialist is essential. Dr. Bryan Fallis, DPM provides compassionate, expert care tailored to pediatric patients and families across Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati.
Parents trust Dr. Fallis for:
- Expertise in Pediatric Foot Conditions: Skilled in diagnosing and treating flexible and rigid flatfoot.
- Individualized Care Plans: Treatment tailored to your child’s age, symptoms, and activity level.
- Conservative-First Approach: Emphasis on non-surgical options such as orthotics, physical therapy, and footwear guidance.
- Advanced Diagnostic Tools: Accurate assessment using physical exams and imaging when needed.
- Comprehensive Treatment Options: Including surgical solutions for complex or persistent cases.
- Family-Focused Care: Clear communication and guidance for both parents and children.
- Convenient Locations: Serving Ft. Mitchell and Cincinnati communities.
Dr. Fallis is committed to helping children stay active, comfortable, and on the right path for healthy growth.
Flatfoot FAQs
Is flatfoot normal in children?
Yes, flatfoot is common in young children and often resolves naturally as the arch develops between ages 3 and 5.
When should I be concerned about my child’s flat feet?
If your child experiences pain, difficulty walking, or stiffness, it’s important to seek evaluation.
What is the difference between flexible and rigid flatfoot?
Flexible flatfoot typically does not cause pain and resolves over time, while rigid flatfoot can cause discomfort and may require treatment.
Do all children with flatfoot need treatment?
No, treatment is only needed if symptoms such as pain or functional limitations are present.
What are orthotics, and how do they help?
Orthotics are custom shoe inserts that support the arch and improve foot alignment.
Is surgery necessary for flatfoot?
Surgery is rarely required and is usually considered only when conservative treatments fail to relieve symptoms.
Schedule Flatfoot Treatment in Ft. Mitchell, KY & Cincinnati, OH
Give your child the support they need for healthy, pain-free movement. If you’re concerned about flatfoot or your child is experiencing symptoms, Dr. Bryan Fallis, DPM is here to help.
Proudly serving Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky, and Cincinnati, Ohio
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Take the first step toward better foot health—contact our office today for expert pediatric flatfoot care.
