Foot malalignments and deformities in paediatric feet - a field study of 345 pupils

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate paediatric feet and to document possible problems. Material and methods: In 345 high school pupils of the 5th and 6th class aged 10 to 13 the feet as well as leg alignment were evaluated with a standardised protocol. Results: Only 36.5% showed regular feet. In almost 2/3rd of the pupils malalignements or even deformities were present. The valgus foot showed the highest incidence with 39.4% followed by a flat foot with 19.1%. 17.1% of the children showed a hallux valgus. There was no correlation between body weight, body height, leg alignment and foot deformity. However, a significant correlation could we found between hallux valgus and splay foot. Conclusion: The presented data underlines the necessity for paying attention on the problems of the paediatric feet. During sport lessons in school a special foot training for children should be performed.