Flat feet develop when the arch of the foot does not form properly. Without timely intervention, this may lead to postural disorders, knee and low back pain, and even scoliosis.
1Patterns we see in the patients who come to us
- Flat feet are not diagnosed before the age of 2–5, because at that age the arch of the foot is still forming
- Of the patients who come to us believing they have flat feet, 60% turn out to have hip dysplasia or pelvic dysfunction
- Birth trauma can cause valgus deformity
- Digestive system problems play an important role in flat feet
2About orthopedic shoes and arch-support insoles
Orthopedic shoes are, first and foremost, medical footwear. They are designed taking into account pathological changes in the foot, lower leg or thigh, and are prescribed only by a doctor, made to order after a thorough examination.
In young children, a thick fat pad sits exactly where an arch-support insole presses. The bone that forms the medial arch has not yet ossified and consists of cartilage — so it is not correct to think that an arch-support insole influences the formation of the arch.
3Scientific research
The study on flat feet in children was conducted within the master’s program of University College London, ISEH and the Azerbaijan State Academy of Physical Education and Sport. More than 35 children took part in the study.
Methods we use
Footscan foot analysis
Precise device-based assessment of flat feet and foot deformities.
Osteopathy
A hands-on treatment method that works on the musculoskeletal system, internal organs, spine, nervous system a…
Therapeutic exercise (remedial exercise therapy)
Treatment alone is not enough — movement matters too. The best results come from consistent exercise.
Pediatric massage
Normalizes tense and shortened muscle groups and has a positive effect on immunity.
Spine and posture analysis
How the body stands, moves and distributes load tells us a great deal about many functional changes.
Foot examination
Recommended reading on this topic
Related conditions
Sources and further reading
- Flat feet — when treatment is needed — NHS (Böyük Britaniya)
- OrthoInfo — patient guide of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons — AAOS