How to Define Pediatric Flatfoot: Comparison of 2 Methods: Foot Posture in Static and Dynamic Conditions in Children 5 to 9 Years Old

Abstract

Flexible flatfoot is the most common posture deformity among children. There are many diagnostic techniques to identify it, from clinical observation to measurements and imaging techniques, both in static and in dynamic conditions, but their reliability, validity, and accuracy are still unproven. The static and dynamic conditions differ; thus, the aim was to compare the results of the evaluation of flatfeet in 50 children (5-9 years of age) in both conditions: standing versus gait. Static evaluation. Comparison of the footprints (Harris and Beath pedograph) with the Clarke’s footprinting graphics. Dynamic evaluation. On the same day, all children underwent pedobarography during gait. Geometric measures of the feet (midfoot width, instep width, instep, foot width) were calculated together with the Arch Index. In the static condition, 87 of 100 were classified as a flatfoot, whereas during walking, there were just 56 feet classified as flat. So 35 feet classified on the basis of the clinical examination and Clarke’s footprint chart as flatfeet, according to the Arch Index calculated during walking were not flat, and 4 feet classified on the basis of Clarke’s footprint chart as normal according to the Arch Index were flat. Levels of Evidence: Prospective cohort study