Question 1: Which of the following statements regarding flat feet are true?
1. Nearly all children below 3 years have flat feet
2. 15% of adults have flat feet
3. Painless flexible flat feet need no treatment
4. Rigid flat feet result from tarsal coalition
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- A. 1 and 2 only
- B. 1, 2, 3 and 4
- C. 3 and 4 only (Correct Answer)
- D. 1, 2 and 3 only
Explanation: ***3 and 4 only***
- **Painless flexible flat feet** in both children and adults generally require **no treatment**, as they are often a physiological variant and do not cause functional limitations.
- **Rigid flat feet** are almost always pathological and are commonly caused by a **tarsal coalition**, an abnormal connection between two or more bones in the foot.
*1 and 2 only*
- While nearly all children below 3 years have **physiological flat feet**, the statement that 15% of adults have flat feet is an underestimation; prevalence varies, but it is often reported to be higher, ranging from 20-30%.
- This option incorrectly excludes the importance of not treating painless flexible flat feet and the established link between rigid flat feet and tarsal coalition.
*1, 2, 3 and 4*
- The statement that 15% of adults have flat feet is likely an **understatement** of the true prevalence, which is often cited as higher.
- While statements 1, 3, and 4 are generally correct, the inaccuracy of statement 2 makes this option incorrect.
*1, 2 and 3 only*
- This option correctly identifies that nearly all children below 3 have flat feet and that painless flexible flat feet do not require treatment.
- However, it incorrectly excludes the crucial fact that **rigid flat feet often result from tarsal coalition**, which is a significant pathological cause.