Name: Prash

India

Number of kids: 1

Ages of kids: 3

Problem: Our 3 year old daughter has flat feet (though not absolutely flat). The doctor has advised wearing arched shoes and added that this is nothing to worry about. What we are anxious to know is:

1. Will our daughter have any limitations or handicaps?
2. What if she doesn't wear arched shoes? (We don't get very good quality shoes in our country, and getting a pair especially made will make her stand out in her school, which we do not want.)
3. Any precautions to be taken?

Parents with experience or knowledge are requested to offer solutions and help us, the worried parents.

Solution submitted Jan: My son wore arch supports and special shoes as a baby until he was about 7 years old. I then put him in regular tennis shoes. Now he's 13 and has developed scoliosis with back, knee, and feet pain. Recently he was casted for inserts and special shoes again. I wish I had gone to the podiatrist for a second opinion when he was younger rather than trying store bought inserts. Be sure your child always gets plenty of calcium to maintain strong bones.

Another solution submitted "PJC" from San Diego, CA: Both of my children have flat feet. Our doctor says there is nothing to worry about. Both children walk fine and run O.K. If they do experience aches and pains from this in their feet, legs or hips the doctor recommended shoe inserts. This would be especially helpful if you can't find good shoes because they add the arch support that you would find in a good pair of shoes. You can purchase arch supports or shoe inserts in the U.S. at any large drug store and at some shoe stores and department stores. They can also be specially made by some podiatrists or physical therapists. Good luck.

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