UPSC-CMS 2019 — Orthopaedics

Q: 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:

3 and 4 only. ***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. [Practice more Orthopaedics PYQs on OnCourse]

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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: