Frequency and Morbidity Associated With Flat Foot Anomaly Among School Going Children

Awais  Gohar; Farhan  Shah; Syed Bilal  Hassan; Iqra Hamid  Khan

doi:10.54112/bcsrj.v6i1.1681

Authors

Awais Gohar University Institute of Public Health, The University of Lahore, Pakistan
Farhan Shah University Institute of Public Health, The University of Lahore, Pakistan
Syed Bilal Hassan University Institute of Public Health, The University of Lahore, Pakistan
Iqra Hamid Khan University Institute of Public Health, The University of Lahore, Pakistan & Lincoln University College, Selangor, Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54112/bcsrj.v6i1.1681

Keywords:

Flat foot anomaly, children, prevalence, morbidity, foot health, physical activity, Staheli's Arch Index, foot stability

Abstract

Flat foot anomaly, commonly seen in children, occurs when the foot's arch is flattened, leading to potential orthopedic complications that can affect mobility and physical activity. Objective: To explore the prevalence and impact of flat feet on foot health, daily functioning, and long-term well-being. Methodology: This cross-sectional study assessed the prevalence and morbidity of flat foot anomaly in school children aged 7 to 14 years in Lahore, using the Plantar Arch Index (SPI) and Foot Health Status Questionnaire (FHSQ). Data analysis was performed using SPSS, with descriptive statistics and Pearson's Chi-square test, considering a p-value of ≤ 0.05 as significant. Results: The study included 223 male participants with a mean age of 10.14 ± 2.45 years, where 62.3% (139 participants) were normal weight, and 19.7% (44 participants) had flat feet. A significant association was found between BMI and foot status (p = 0.000*), with underweight children having more flat feet. Pain location (p = 0.005*) and pain level (p = 0.041*) were also significantly associated with flat foot prevalence, along with differences in pain (p = 0.050*) and foot health status (p < 0.001*). Conclusion: This study highlights the significant impact of flat foot anomalies on pain tolerance and foot health, emphasizing the importance of early identification and intervention to prevent complications in school-aged children.

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