ABSTRACT
The natural history of flat feet is for spontaneous improvement and the painless, flexible flat foot needs no treatment. Treatment choice is multi-factorial and of course is defined by the function and comfort of the shorter leg and a holistic assessment of the child and any other associated problems. Treatment depends on the age of the patient and the exact site, comminution of the fracture. Physiotherapy and splinting are the mainstays of early treatment; some improvement in passive range of movement is common but active control may be more difficult to establish. A full neurological assessment is indicated as treatment and prognosis may be affected if an underlying cause can be identified. Treatment is aimed at preventing deformity and maximising function; a wide range of orthopaedic techniques may be used if/when appropriate but in association with good physiotherapy and orthotic devises.
