Author(s): GISLADOTTIR, T., PETROVIC, M., Institution: UNIVERSITY OF ICELAND, Country: ICELAND, Abstract-ID: 873

INTRODUCTION:
This study investigated longitudinal changes in the prevalence of flat feet among schoolchildren in Reykjavik, Iceland, with particular emphasis on physical development and activity-related factors. Three years prior, students in the 1st, 4th, and 7th grades from a local primary school were assessed for the presence of flat feet using a podoscope. The same cohort of children was re-evaluated after a three-year period to examine changes in medial longitudinal arch development.
METHODS:
In order to detect flat feet deformities, a podoscopic measurements were performed. Children were asked to step barefoot on a podoscope, where a snapshot of their feet was taken. Clark angle was calculated automatically as one of the most reliable measurements of foot deformities. The same procedure was performed three years after the initial measurements.
RESULTS:
At baseline, the prevalence of flat feet was 15% in 1st-grade students, 11% in 4th-grade students, and 7% in 7th-grade students. Upon follow-up assessment—when the same participants had progressed to the 4th, 7th, and 10th grades—the prevalence declined to 5%, 6%, and 2%, respectively. These findings demonstrate a consistent age-related reduction in the prevalence of flat feet, suggesting that a substantial proportion of children naturally develop a normal foot arch as part of typical growth and maturation.
CONCLUSION:
These results align with existing literature highlighting the role of physical activity and musculoskeletal development in foot structure maturation. Longitudinal observations further support the notion that increasing physical maturity, combined with regular physical activity, contributes to the development of the medial longitudinal arch. In the context of declining physical activity levels among children, the present findings underscore the importance of promoting active lifestyles to support healthy musculoskeletal development.
This study enhances current understanding of paediatric foot health and emphasizes the value of early screening and sustained encouragement of physical activity to facilitate optimal foot and overall musculoskeletal development.