[Guest]

I have a 12-year old son who is very active in basketball. He has flat feet, however, he runs very stiff it appears as though he has limited flexability in his ankle. I took him to an orthopaedic specialists and he informed me that he has heel valgus. He indicated that as long as he is not in pain there is nothing to worry about. Should I get a second opinion from a podiatrist?

He cannot stand on his tip toes and cannot jump very high.

Should I go for a second opinion or is this nothing to worry about.

Another mother was the one that indicated a problem was present. She said two of her children ran simular and had to have surgery. This has been several years ago and the doctor she went to has since retired.

[Guest]

This is a tough situation to comment upon without seeing your son. The orthopedist's view certainly was do not cause pain and possible complications in a child who has no pain at this time. This may very weel be true. My concern is that if his heel valgus is very severe, it may lead to early arthritis. There is a surgery performed called an arthroereisis where a "plug-like" structure is placed in the sinus tarsi which prevents the heel from turning in. It can be very effective. The nice part about this procedure is that it does not hurt the joints, bones or growth plates in the foot. Furthermore, the recovery time is literally 1-2 weeks and the incision is only about an inch long. Finally, if it causes any pain, it can be removed very easily. I know this may sound to good to be true but it is a great surgery for the right patient. Therefore, you may want to get a second opinion from a podiatrist or orthopedist who works a lot with children and have them explain this more thoroughly. Have a nice day and please write back if you have any further questions.
[quote] I have a 12-year old son who is very active in basketball. He has flat feet, however, he runs very stiff it appears as though he has limited flexability in his ankle... [/quote]