Can wearing flat shoes or going barefoot worsen flat feet in children?
Asked 3 years ago
As a concerned parent, I want to know if wearing flat shoes or going barefoot can worsen my child's flat feet. I've heard conflicting opinions and I don't want to do anything that could harm my child's foot development. I hope to get some clear answers from other parents or experts in the field.
Dakota Russo
Sunday, April 02, 2023
No. As a matter of fact, kids may be allowed to walk barefoot as much and as safely as possible to allow the feet to develop conveniently. According to the National Institute of Health, shoe-wearing in early childhood is detrimental to the development of a normal longitudinal arch. Flat foot is normal in kids and will correct in due course.
Please follow our Community Guidelines
Related Articles
How to Feed Your Toddler Healthy Food
First Walkers
January 4, 2026
Low Arch vs. Flat Feet in Toddlers: A Podiatrist's Perspective
Andile Lino
September 6, 2025
10 Best Sneakers for Kids With Wide Feet for Playtime and School
First Walkers
September 13, 2025
Related Posts
Babafemi Adebajo
Do You Need a Prescription for Orthopaedic Shoes?
Benjamin Aduwo
10 Best Orthopaedic Shoes for Kids With Flat Feet
Babafemi Adebajo
How to Help Dyspraxic Kids Tie Their Shoes?
Jasrah Javed
Top 5 Cute Pink Shoes for Little Girls
Jonathan Coom
What Does It Mean When a Child Tip Toes?
Dr. Leah Alexander
Are Plantar Warts on Feet Contagious?
Can't find what you're looking for?
