Flat feet

Son Michael has been complaining about a sore heel for a few weeks, so I asked Juliet to take him to a podiatrist and he had the appointment this afternoon.

After consulting Dr Google last night, I thought he might have Sever’s Disease, which is common in boys of his age and they grow out of it.

But the podiatrist says Michael has flat feet and needs arch support.

He’s having a cast of his foot made at the next appointment and will probably have the orthotic device by September.

We’re concerned to protect Michael’s feet, which could be worth millions each if they ever grace the turf at Old Trafford or Stamford Bridge.

Flat feet won’t affect his soccer potential, but the pain he’s been experiencing obviously needs to be treated. If the orthotics are not successful he may need surgery when he’s older.

All I knew about flat feet before yesterday was they’re normal in babies and they stop you enlisting in the Army.

The Children’s Hospital at Westmead has published an informative fact sheet.

“It has been learned in the last 30 years that most people with flat feet have no more foot problems than others. However stiff flat feet can be painful and need treatment.”

Wikipedia says treatment of flat feet may also be appropriate if there is associated foot or lower leg pain, or if the condition affects the knees or the lower back. Treatment may include using orthotics such as an arch support, foot gymnastics or other exercises as recommended by a podiatrist or other physician.

It’s tough on the little bloke to inherit this condition, especially because he loves his sport. Better to discover it now though, than when he’s an adult.

The podiatrist wants to check Jim and Maggie now to see how they’re feet are shaping.