According to Dr. Wade Brackenbury (Specialist in Chiropractic Neurology, ACC Clinic), flat feet is a condition in which the soles of the feet are completely flat and lack a natural arch. When moving, children with flat feet often walk in a V-shape, with their knees pointing inward, ankles turning inwards or outwards, and no visible arch when standing upright. Children may experience foot pain and find it difficult to run and play. Flat feet in young children may be caused by congenital factors, obesity, loose ligaments, wearing improper shoes, or injuries.

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Are Flat Feet in Children Dangerous?

If flat feet are not detected and treated in time, children are at high risk of developing musculoskeletal conditions such as:

• Ankle arthritis: The bones and soft tissues around the ankle joint become damaged, leading to inflammation.

• Knee osteoarthritis: Over time, inward or outward ankle rotation can cause knee joint degeneration.

• Scoliosis: Flat feet can affect the spine and lead to deformities such as scoliosis.

• Hammer toes: Changes in foot bone structure can cause toe deformities.

• Plantar fasciitis: Abnormal foot structure can cause irregular toe bone development, leading to plantar fascia inflammation.

• Achilles tendonitis: The lack of an arch reduces foot flexibility during movement, increasing the risk of heel injuries and Achilles tendon inflammation.

• Bunion bursitis: An abnormal big toe structure caused by flat feet may eventually result in inflammation of the big toe bursa.

Flat feet also affect a child’s posture, causing an awkward gait, slower movements, frequent falls, and reduced self-confidence.

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How to Prevent the Harm of Flat Feet?

Parents can detect flat feet by having their child step on sand. If the footprint shows a curved arch, there is no problem. If the footprint shows the entire sole, the child likely has flat feet. Another method is for parents to place a finger under the child’s foot when they stand upright. If the finger cannot slide through the sole, it indicates flat feet.

The best time to treat flat feet is between the ages of 3 and 7, when the bones in the feet are still soft and adjustable, making it easier to restore the arch and ensure proper bone development.

One of the most effective, non-surgical treatments is the use of orthopedic insoles. These insoles act like shoe inserts that create and support the arch of the child’s foot.

Orthopedic insoles are designed using modern CAD-CAM technology from Switzerland. This system scans and measures the foot arch, determining the exact level of support needed for each child. Based on this data, doctors create insoles with a precise, customized fit.

To ensure maximum treatment effectiveness, parents should choose reputable clinics equipped with CAD-CAM technology. It is not recommended to buy ready-made insoles on the market, as each child’s degree of flat feet varies and requires precise measurement. Pre-made insoles may not fit properly, leading to arches that are too deep or too shallow, which can harm the child’s feet.

ACC Clinic is one of the pioneering medical facilities in Southeast Asia applying CAD-CAM technology in the design and clinical testing of orthopedic insoles for flat feet treatment.

Experienced doctors at ACC will create personalized treatment plans for each patient. Depending on the condition of the child’s feet, the doctor will provide the correct orthopedic insoles and guide the child through exercises to improve arch development.

The earlier flat feet are treated, the higher the effectiveness. Therefore, parents are encouraged to take their children to a trusted clinic for proper diagnosis and treatment, minimizing musculoskeletal complications and protecting their child’s overall health.