Evaluation and treatment of symptomatic pes planus.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To provide the pediatrician with a comprehensive synopsis of pediatric pes planus, also known as flatfoot. The term pes planus is a physical finding that generates some confusion in the medical community because it describes a spectrum of conditions that are diagnosed and managed differently.

RECENT FINDINGS

Some of the recent data incorporated in this review come from pediatric, orthopaedic, and podiatric literature. These sources describe the clinical features and the latest treatment options for pes planus.

SUMMARY

This article will provide some guidance to evaluate and treat the many causes of pediatric pes planus. Nonsurgical and operative management will be discussed.