Abstract:
ABSTRACT
Introduction: flatfoot is a medical condition in which the medial longitudinal arch of the
foot is reduced or flat. It is common abnormality in children and resulted around 90% of all
clinical visits related to foot problems are due to flatfoot. Its prevalence around the world
varies and there is lack of data on flatfoot among, children in Ethiopia particularly in this
study area.
Objective: This study was aimd to assess the prevalence and associated factors of
flatfoot among elementary school children in Gondar town, North West, Ethiopia, 2019
Methods: An institutional cross-sectional study was conducted among elementary school
children in Gondar town from April to May 2019. Face to face interview was conducted for
socio- demographic information and physical Measurements were done for weight and
height. Flatfoot was assessed by standard and well validated tool of Staheli arch index
value using ink footprint. Multistage sampling procedure was used. Data was checked for
its completeness, accuracy and clarity and it was analyzed by using descriptive statistics,
bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis methods. P <0.05 with 95% CI was
considered statistically significant.
Results: A total of 823 participants were included in this study with a response rate of
97.4%. The overall prevalence of flatfoot among elementary school children were 17.6 %.
Conclusion: In conclusion, about 17.6% of elementary school children were diagnosed
with flatfoot partly explained by excessive body mass, younger age group, gender, type of
foot wear, and low physical activity.
Keywords: flatfoot, prevalence, school children, Ethiopia
