Flat Feet :
Flat feet—also known as fallen arches—is a condition where the foot’s arch either doesn’t develop or collapses, causing the sole to touch the ground completely. It’s common among children and often harmless, but in some cases, it may lead to discomfort or walking issues. At our foot arch correction hospital for children in Dubai, Dr. Fariwar specializes in pediatric flat feet treatment, offering both non-surgical and surgical solutions tailored to each child’s needs.
Does Every Child with Flat Feet Need Treatment?
Not always. Many children have flat feet during normal development, and the arch often forms naturally by the age of 6 to 7. However, if your child is over 8 years old and shows signs of foot pain, fatigue, or reluctance to engage in physical activities, it’s advisable to consult a pediatric flat feet in Dubai. An early evaluation can determine whether non-surgical treatment is sufficient or if targeted intervention is necessary to correct the condition.
When to See a Pediatric Orthopedic Doctor for Flat Feet in Dubai
It’s time to seek medical advice when you notice your child struggling with activities like walking, running, or even wearing regular shoes. A pediatric orthopedic doctor for flat feet in Dubai can assess the severity of the condition and provide a treatment roadmap. Issues like early fatigue, poor posture, or frequent foot pain should not be ignored.
How to Fix Flat Feet in Children in Dubai – What Are Your Options?
Dr Fariwar Bagheri follow a step-by-step approach for children’s flat feet treatment based on age and severity:
For Children Aged 8–12: When flat feet are painful or interfering with daily life, flat foot surgery for kids may be considered. This minor procedure involves placing a screw in the foot to guide proper arch formation. Recovery is quick—most kids resume normal walking within a few days.
For Children Above Age 12: If the child is older and their bones are less flexible, a more advanced surgery may be required, with a recovery time of about 2.5 months. During this period, the child may need to use crutches and orthopedic boots under the care of the best doctor for flat feet in children in Dubai.
Non-Surgical Flat Feet Solutions for Kids
In early or mild cases, we often recommend non-surgical treatment for flat feet in children. This may include:
Custom orthotics for kids’ flat feet – Special shoe inserts designed to support the arch and improve walking comfort.
Physical therapy and foot-strengthening exercises.
Supportive footwear tailored for foot arch correction.
Our team works closely with experienced flat feet podiatrists in Dubai to ensure the child receives the best care based on their specific needs.
Causes & Symptoms of Flat Feet
Causes
If your parents or family have a history of flat feet, genetics may be a factor.
Many children may develop arches later, typically by the age of 6–8.
Any foot or ankle injury may cause the arch to collapse, especially if ligaments are damaged.
Putting on excess body weight or overeating may contribute to a flattened arch.
Dysfunction of the posterior tibial tendon is a common cause in adults.
Certain neurological or muscular conditions like cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or spina bifida can lead to flat feet.
Rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory diseases can also affect the foot structure.
Symptoms
Discomfort or pain in the foot, arch, ankle, or heel that affects daily activities like standing or walking for long hours
Swelling around the ankle caused by strain on the muscles and ligaments supporting the arch
Tired or painful feet after any physical activity
Difficulty standing on tiptoes
Abnormal walking patterns, often caused by the ankles rolling inward, which can affect posture and body balance
Misalignment in the feet that may lead to knee, hip, or back pain
Flat Feet in Adults – Causes and Treatment Options
Flat feet can also develop in adulthood due to injury, wear and tear, or tendon dysfunction. Treatment typically begins with conservative approaches such as braces or orthotic support. If the pain continues or mobility becomes limited, surgical intervention may be recommended.
With over 15 years of experience in pediatric orthopedic surgery, Dr. Fariwar Bagheri is a trusted Orthopedic Clinic in Dubai, known for advanced diagnostics and personalized treatment plans. From custom orthotics to specialized flat foot surgery for kids, our focus is on ensuring your child’s comfort, mobility, and long-term well-being.
Take the First Step Toward Healthy Feet
If your child is showing signs of discomfort or poor foot posture, don’t wait. Book a consultation with Dr Fariwar Bagheri - best pediatric flat feet specialist in Dubai and let us guide you through the most suitable treatment options. We’re here to help your child walk with confidence—pain-free and fully supported.
FAQs
No. When flat feet lead to pain in the ankle or knee, special medical shoes are prescribed to reduce the pain, but these shoes don’t correct the deformity.
As long as it doesn’t cause any pain, does not have a progressive nature, and doesn’t interfere with the patient’s performances such as walking, running, and wearing shoes, it doesn’t need treatment.
Up to age of 3, the underlying fatty tissue of skin in the inner side of the foot is not absorbed and gives the foot a flat appearance, therefore, it is difficult to judge whether it is flat. After this age, many flat feet are corrected by themselves, and there is no need to intervene.
After 8 years, It should be treated in the presence of the above-mentioned factors along with flat feet at this age, and especially the feeling of early exhaustion in the soles following a short period of walking.
At 8–12 years of age, if there are any of the mentioned findings, one should refer to an orthopedic surgeon who is active in this field, and based on the specialist’s discretion, corrective surgical treatment for resolution of flat feet and heel deviation should be performed.
The deformity can be corrected at age of 8-12 by a minor surgery which consists of placing screws in the foot. During the remaining ages of growth following the surgery, the foot will grow in the correct form and the foot deformity will be corrected. The rehabilitation period following the surgery is very short and comfortable, there is no need to cast, and the patient can walk a few days after the operation.
A few months later, all sport activities are allowed.
Yes, flat feet in adults have other causes, and it is often due to the improper function of tibialis posterior tendon. In the early stages, the treatment is non-surgical using special shoes and races or casts, but in advanced stages and late referral, surgical treatment takes place.
As mentioned above, if it is not associated with pain and dysfunction in children and adolescents, it doesn’t need any treatment. Untreated cases can be complicated by osteoarthritis of foot joints at the middle or old age, but this doesn’t necessarily lead to pain and discomfort in many patients. Therefore, mild and asymptomatic cases don’t need any treatment.