This is a common concern of parents of young children. Most children under the age of three are flat footed as the arch does not develop until around this age. The feet of older children and adolescents often remain flat but if flexible and pain free, treatment if rarely necessary. Insoles may be appropriate if there are symptoms in the feet such aching pain with walking or activity.
Patients with flat feet are often have lax joints and there may be a family history. Mild forms of flat foot are best managed by supportive footwear such as training shoe with a good arch support. Surgery is rarely required for this sort of flat foot. There is a rare form of flat foot when the foot is stiff, this often causes pain and surgery is often required. If any concerns consult your local paediatric orthopaedic specialist.