Diagnostics, evaluation and treatment of flat feet in children.

Pes planovalgus (PV) in early childhood is a common physiological state, and usually resolves throughout childhood. Parental concern often leads to seeking medical advice. This review summarises the current knowledge of the different types of PV. Asymptomatic PV does not need treatment, but corrective footwear can be utilised for painful PV. Orthopaedic referral is needed if conservative treatment is not sufficient. It is important to distinguish between flexible and rigid PV, since rigid PV can be a sign of underlying pathologies and needs referral to orthopaedic surgeons. Further studies are needed to investigate for predictive factors to develop painful PV.