Question
My child is about 2 1/2 and loves to be barefoot. My mother in law always suggests that she should always wear shoes being that she looks like she has flat feet. I understand right now is the time she starts to build her arches. What is the difference if she's walking around barefoot on a flat hard surface, then walking around in shoe that are flat and hard? Should I be buying her shoes with support in them?  

Answer
Hi Jennica,

Kids at this age will have feet that look flat but as they lose the extra fat and start building arches this is normal.  

Your child should already be in shoes.  However, I do not recommend hard shoes like Stride Rite.  I would consider a running type shoe that has cushion and arch support.

Sincerely,

Dr. Katz
http://www.fixfootpain.com