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Flat Feet in Children vs Adults: 6 Signs to Watch For and What Helps
Flat Feet in Children vs Adults are not the same problem. In many children, a flat arch is a normal stage of growth that needs no treatment. In adults, a foot that has become flat or painful deserves a closer look. This guide explains the difference, six signs to watch for, and what can help.
What are flat feet?
Flat feet (also called flatfoot or pes planus) means the inner arch of the foot is low, or touches the ground when you stand. Some people have flat feet all their lives and never feel any pain. For others, the arch lowers over time and can cause discomfort in the foot, ankle, knee or lower back.
Flat feet in children: often normal
Babies and toddlers look flat-footed because their arches haven’t developed yet and the foot is padded with soft tissue. The arch usually forms gradually through childhood.
Many children have flexible flat feet. The arch is flat when they stand, but appears when they stand on tiptoe or sit down. Flexible flat feet are usually painless and often need no treatment, only a check-up to confirm that is what it is.
Flat feet in adults: more likely to need attention
In adults, flat feet may be lifelong, or they may develop later. An arch that has dropped over time can be linked to tendon wear, injury, arthritis, weight gain or other medical conditions. That is why a flat foot that is painful, or that has changed, should be assessed rather than ignored.
Flat Feet in Children vs Adults 6 signs to watch for
- Pain in the arch, heel, ankle or inner foot, especially after standing or walking.
- Swelling along the inside of the ankle.
- One foot flatter than the other, or a foot that has changed shape.
- A stiff flat foot, where the arch does not appear when standing on tiptoe.
- Tiring easily or limping, especially in a child who avoids running or playing.
- Uneven shoe wear, with the inner edge of the shoe wearing down faster.
Any of these is worth getting checked. If there is a sudden change, severe pain, or a hot, swollen ankle, see a doctor promptly.
What helps flat feet
Treatment depends on age, symptoms and the type of flat foot.
- Watchful waiting for children whose flexible flat feet cause no pain.
- Supportive footwear with a firm heel and enough room for the foot.
- Exercises and stretches for the calf, foot and ankle, ideally guided by a physiotherapist.
- Orthotics: insoles made to support the foot, which may help reduce discomfort. Read more in our guide to what are foot orthotics and our page on custom foot orthotics.
- Activity and weight management where relevant.
- Medical review or surgery in a small number of cases, where pain is severe or the foot is rigid or deformed.
Orthotics can help with comfort and alignment, but they don’t suit every foot and they are not a cure. For more options, see our article on flat feet treatment methods.
What helps flat feet
Treatment depends on age, symptoms and the type of flat foot.
- Watchful waiting for children whose flexible flat feet cause no pain.
- Supportive footwear with a firm heel and enough room for the foot.
- Exercises and stretches for the calf, foot and ankle, ideally guided by a physiotherapist.
- Orthotics: insoles made to support the foot, which may help reduce discomfort. Read more in our guide to what are foot orthotics and our page on custom foot orthotics.
- Activity and weight management where relevant.
- Medical review or surgery in a small number of cases, where pain is severe or the foot is rigid or deformed.
Orthotics can help with comfort and alignment, but they don’t suit every foot and they are not a cure. For more options, see our article on flat feet treatment methods.
When to see a specialist
Book an assessment if:
- Your child complains of foot or leg pain, or avoids activity.
- One foot looks different from the other.
- The arch never appears, even on tiptoe.
- An adult’s arch has dropped or become painful.
- You have diabetes and notice any change in your feet.
How OP India can help
At our Kalyan clinic, we examine your feet, look at how you stand and walk, and explain your options honestly. If orthotics are likely to help, we make them to your measurements. If another treatment or a referral would suit you better, we will tell you.
To book a consultation, call +91 91362 91794 or use our contact page.
Frequently asked questions
Often, yes. Many children have flexible flat feet that need no treatment. A painful or stiff flat foot should be checked.
In many children the arch develops with age. In adults, an arch that has dropped usually doesn’t come back without treatment, although symptoms can often be managed.
Not always. If your flat feet cause no pain, you may not need any treatment. If they cause discomfort, orthotics are one option to discuss with a specialist.
For some people, flat feet change how the leg and hip carry weight, which may contribute to pain elsewhere. An assessment can show whether your feet are involved.
Look for pain, limping, tiring quickly, or a foot that stays stiff and flat on tiptoe. If you notice any of these, book an assessment.
