Hi,

Sorry to hear of your past struggles but glad your little girl is currently doing well. AFOs are used for foot drop, and I presume your dd is not having foot drop since she is fully active, doing gymnastics, etc. Flat feet are not a problem unless they cause significant pain.

I would not consider an AFO for her. They would alter her natural gait, they are uncomfortable and socially they would not be good for her, as there is no way to disguise them. You might want to make an appt with a podiatrist, and he may possibly recommend using an orthotic inside her shoes, but as long as she is not in pain, flat feet are probably her "normal."

My daughter, now 15, also has VERY flat feet. We saw a podiatrist earlier this summer and he recommended the orthotic and also recommended she not wear cheap flip flops, unsupportive shoes, high heels, etc. He also gave her some suggestions to do when there is pain, as my daughter does sometimes strain her feet if she wears heels or runs a lot.

Hope this helps. Take care!