If your toddler's feet look completely flat, take a breath — almost all young children have flat feet, and for most it's a normal stage that needs nothing more than time. Here's how to tell the typical kind from the kind worth checking.
Why young children have flat feet
Babies and toddlers have a pad of fat where the arch will be, and their ligaments are naturally loose — so their feet look flat. The arch usually develops on its own during early childhood, often becoming visible by around ages 5–6, sometimes later. This is called flexible flat feet, and it's typical.
When flat feet are usually fine
Flexible flat feet that aren't causing any pain or trouble generally need no treatment — and special shoes or inserts usually aren't necessary. An arch that appears when your child stands on tiptoe is a reassuring sign the foot is flexible.
Signs worth checking
- Foot pain, leg pain, or cramping, or complaints after activity.
- Stiff, rigid flat feet that don't form an arch on tiptoe.
- Flatness on only one side.
- Frequent tripping, tiring quickly, or avoiding activity.
Most flat feet need only reassurance. Pain, stiffness, or one-sided flatness should be checked by your pediatrician, who can refer to physical therapy if needed.
Flat feet causing pain or tripping? An evaluation can tell you if PT would help.
How physical therapy helps
When flat feet cause pain or affect how a child moves, physical therapy can help with strengthening, stretching, balance, and movement strategies — and advise on supportive footwear when appropriate. PT is a new service at MTG and we're accepting referrals (required from your child's primary care provider, faxed to 901-589-9001).