Paediatric flat foot and good shoes

What are considered good shoes?

Children's shoes should be flexible and allow for growth and development (6), with the primary purpose being to provide a protective sole. However, stable shoes can help in cases of painful flat foot. There is a significant difference in the stability of different shoes. The goal is not to use special shoes, but to help patients find footwear they like. In practice, the shoe should determine the alignment and not yield to the foot. The heel counter at the rear part of the shoe must be stiff enough to keep the heel in position. For the heel counter to hold the heel, the shoe must be the correct size. The lacing should push the foot back into the heel counter. Velcro shoes should have a strap at the ankle. The sole should not twist lengthwise or yield to the foot misalignment. If the calf muscle is tight, a small lift under the heel can help alleviate symptoms. Children should be encouraged to stay active, also without shoes.

It is not necessary for the patient to wait for several months to have this conversation at a specialist clinic. This could ideally be done prior to referral.

Some children experience significant issues despite focusing on good footwear, and these children can be evaluated in the specialist health service.