Prevention and diagnosis of flat feet in primary school children

Abstract

Mobile flat feet is a significant orthopedic pathology in children of primary school age. The implementation of accessible and objective rapid diagnostic methods of mobile flat feet into routine clinical practice is highly relevant. Objective. To develop a combination of diagnostic, preventive, and rehabilitation measures to reduce the incidence of flat feet in primary school children. Patients and methods. We performed a comprehensive assessment of foot condition in 126 children aged 8 to 10 years (67 boys (53.2%) and 59 girls (46.8%)). We have developed a portable diagnostic device for rapid diagnostics of flat feet during preventive examinations in kindergartens and schools (patent of the Russian Federation No 175246 dated 11.28.2017). Results. The incidence of flat feet in children of primary school age was 19.0%. Forty-four children (35.0%) were diagnosed with grade I longitudinal flat feet; 29 children (23.0%) were diagnosed with grade II longitudinal flat feet; 11 children (9.0%) were diagnosed with grade III longitudinal flat feet; 42 children (33%) were healthy. The incidence was 2.4% higher in boys. We analyzed the risk factors for flat feet and developed cost-effective correctors for heel position. Conclusion. The implementation of portable device for rapid diagnostics of flat feet during preventive examination in educational institutions enables early detection of foot pathology and identification of risk groups. The inclusion of heel position correctors in the comprehensive rehabilitation for mobile flat feet restored normal foot function. Timely diagnosis and correction of mobile flat feet can prevent the development of this pathology at an early stage and improve the quality of life of the child. Key words: mobile flat feet, children, portable rapid diagnostic device, heel position corrector