Question
My 7-year-old daughter was diagnosed with flat feet by our regular doctor. She sometimes complains of pain in her legs. Our doctor said that she will probably outgrow it. If not, what are her treatment options? Is there anything I can do for her now?
Answer
The only treatment option for flat feet for a 7-year-old is to consider foot orthotics. Orthotics are a type of shoe insert that is made by taking an impression cast of the foot. The idea behind using orthotics is to reduce the amount of pronation (collapse of the arch) that occurs during walking, hence allowing the foot and its structures to function in a more normal fashion. This may or not reduce her pain.
I would agree with your pediatrician that, in most cases, the pain will go away on its own.