Flat Feet in Kids: Should Parents Be Concerned?

If you’ve noticed your child’s feet look “flat” when they stand, you’re probably wondering whether it’s something to worry about. Flat feet are very common in children, and in many cases, they’re a normal part of development. That said, some types of flat feet do benefit from assessment and treatment, especially if pain, balance issues, or fatigue start showing up.

At On The Ball Pediatric, our physiotherapists often help parents understand what’s normal, what’s not, and when pediatric physiotherapy can make a difference.

What Are Flat Feet in Children?

Flat feet (also called pes planus) occur when the arch on the inside of the foot appears lowered or absent during standing. This can change how forces travel through the foot and leg during walking, running, and jumping.

How Common Are Flat Feet?

• Most infants and toddlers naturally have flat feet
• The arch typically begins forming between ages 4–10
• Many children outgrow flat feet without any intervention

The key question isn’t “Does my child have flat feet?”—it’s “Are those flat feet causing problems?”

Flexible vs. Rigid Flat Feet: Why the Difference Matters

Flexible Flat Feet (Most Common)

• An arch appears when your child is sitting
• The foot flattens only during weight-bearing
• Usually painless and developmentally normal

➡️ Often no treatment is needed unless symptoms develop.

Rigid Flat Feet (Less Common)

• The arch does not appear, even when non-weight-bearing
• May be associated with stiffness, pain, or structural issues
• More likely to persist into adolescence or adulthood

➡️ Assessment is recommended, especially if pain or movement limitations are present.

Signs Flat Feet May Be Affecting Your Child

Flat feet deserve closer attention if your child experiences:

• Foot, heel, or ankle pain
• Fatigue during walking or sports
• Frequent tripping or balance issues
• Shoes wearing down unevenly
• Knee, hip, or lower leg discomfort
• Avoidance of physical activity

These signs suggest the feet may not be absorbing or distributing forces efficiently—something pediatric physiotherapy can help address.

How Flat Feet Can Affect Alignment and Balance

When the arch collapses excessively, the foot may roll inward (called overpronation). Over time, this can influence:

• Ankle stability
• Knee alignment
• Hip control
• Overall balance and coordination

In active kids, this can increase strain during running, jumping, and sport participation—especially without proper strength and support.

Pediatric Physiotherapy for Foot Pain and Flat Feet

Pediatric physiotherapy for foot pain focuses on improving how the foot functions—not just how it looks.

At On The Ball Pediatric, physiotherapy treatment often includes:

1. Foot Strengthening for Children

Targeted exercises help activate the small muscles that support the arch, such as:

• Toe curls and towel scrunches
• Heel raises
• Arch-lift exercises
• Balance-based games

These exercises improve strength, coordination, and endurance in growing feet.

2. Stretching Tight Muscles

Tight calf muscles can limit ankle motion and place extra stress on the arch, especially during walking, running, and jumping. When the ankle doesn’t move well, the foot often compensates by collapsing inward, which can contribute to fatigue and discomfort.

Gentle stretching helps restore ankle flexibility and allows the foot to move more efficiently. Common examples include calf wall stretches, heel-drop stretches off a step, and gentle towel stretches done while sitting. These are simple, safe movements that can be easily built into a child’s daily routine or warm-up before sports.

3. Gait and Movement Assessment

A gait and movement assessment looks at how your child moves—not just how their feet look when standing. Children with flat feet may walk with excessive inward rolling of the ankles, reduced push-off through the toes, shortened step length, or a wider walking stance to help with balance.

We also assess running, jumping, and single-leg balance, as flat feet can affect coordination and shock absorption during play and sport. Identifying these movement patterns helps guide targeted exercises and, when needed, footwear or orthotic recommendations to support more efficient, confident movement.

4. Orthotics (When Needed)

Orthotics are not always necessary, but in some cases they can:

• Reduce pain during activity
• Improve alignment
• Support the foot while strength develops

They work best when paired with an active strengthening program—not as a stand-alone solution.

Do Flat Feet Always Need Treatment?

Not necessarily. 

Flat feet only need treatment if they’re causing symptoms or functional issues. Pain-free, active kids with flexible flat feet often just need monitoring as they grow. A physiotherapy assessment helps you make confident, informed decisions—without over-treating or ignoring real issues.

When Should Parents Seek Help?

Consider booking an assessment if:

• Pain persists beyond a few weeks
• Your child avoids walking, running, or sports
• Balance or coordination seems off
• You’re unsure whether orthotics are necessary

Early guidance can prevent small issues from turning into bigger movement problems later on.

Supporting Healthy Feet as Kids Grow

Flat feet are frequently observed as part of typical development; however, maintaining strong, well-coordinated feet is important, particularly for active children. With appropriate guidance, the majority of children can achieve comfortable, confident, and pain-free movement.

For those seeking advice regarding your children's flat feet or interested in evidence-based treatment options, the professionals at On The Ball Physiotherapy are available to assist.

Schedule a pediatric physiotherapy assessment to receive comprehensive answers, ensuring your child remains active and engaged.

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