FLAT FEET AND OBESITY AMONG CHILDREN

Abstract

Flat feet (pes planus) represents one of the most frequent deformities of the lower extremities which occurs with the collapse of the physiological arches of the feet. The causes of flat feet are numerous. One of the main causes is excessive weight and obesity, problems which this review paper meant to explain by analyzing the works of authors who dealt with this problem from 2000 to 2017. The prevalence of flat feet varies depending on several factors, but all the authors agree that obesity increases the percentage of the prevalence of flat feet among children. The influence of physical activity on any changes to the status of the arches of the feet and a decrease in body weight have been the focus of very few authors. The recommendation is for this problem to be analyzed more because of the positive results that the application of physical activity has on postural status and disorders of the feet. The prevalence of flat feet differs depending on the geographical area, but also depending on age and gender.