Early detection of podiatric anomalies in children with Down syndrome

Aims: To verify the importance of podiatric evaluation in patients with Down syndrome for the early diagnosis and treatment of minor orthopaedic problems. Methods: Case-control study of 50 children affected by Down syndrome (aged 4-10 y) without major orthopaedic malformations compared to 100 healthy children. A complete podiatric examination was performed on all patients and controls. Results: Children with Down syndrome showed several orthopaedic anomalies including bony deformity of the forefoot (90%), flat foot (60%), isolated calcaneal valgus (24%), knee valgus (22%) and pronated flat foot (16%). These abnormalities were responsible for postural alterations as confirmed by baropodometric examination.

Conclusion: The data demonstrated a greater incidence of minor orthopaedic alterations and suggest the necessity of regular podiatric examinations in the follow-up of this syndrome.