What is flat foot and why does it happen in children?

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Flat feet (also known as fallen arches) occur when a child has not yet learned how to use the foot properly during standing, walking and movement.

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While some children with flat feet may not complain of pain, may experience:

• Easy fatigue when walking or running

• Foot, leg or knee discomfort

• Poor balance or frequent tripping

• Abnormal walking or running patterns

 

In growing children, flat feet are often a functional and coordination issue, not a fixed structural problem. 

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Our core approach: First Ray Control Method

 

​The First Ray Control Method is the core training approach used in our Children Flat Feet Restoration Program. 

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Instead of relying on insoles or external support, this method focuses on teaching children how to actively control their feet during daily movement. 

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What makes this method different?

 

We focus on a critical but often overlooked area of the foot: The area under the big toe (first metatarsal head).

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This area acts as the foot's main control and stability point:

• When used correctly, the arch forms naturally

• When not used properly, the arch collapses under body weight

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The First Ray Control Method trains children to:

• Load this area correctly

• Stabilise the foot under gravity

• Maintain arch control during movement

 

We do not "force the arch up", we teach the foot how to work. 

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A Structured, step-by-step training program

 

The Children Flat Feet Gait Restoration Program follows a progressive, child-friendly structure, allowing skills to develop safely and naturally.

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Stage 1: Lying Down Mode (Static + No Body Weight)

​Children are guided to explore basic foot movements precisely, at non-weight-bearing position.

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Stage 2: Sitting Mode (Static + Minimal Weight-Bearing)

​Children learn basic arch awareness with minimal weight-bearing, building correct foot & ankle sensation and control.

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Stage 3: Standing Mode (Static + Gravity Influence)

​Children practise activating arch control while standing, gradually adapting to body weight.

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Stage 4: Walking Mode (Dynamic + Gravity + Slow Speed)

​Controlled walking is introduced, reinforcing proper foot loading and heel-to-toe movement.

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Stage 5: Squatting Mode (Multi-joint dynamic + Gravity + Slow Speed)

​Squatting activities improve foot stability while coordinating the ankle, knee, and hip. 

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Stage 6: Jumping Mode (Multi-joint dynamic + Gravity + Fast Speed)

​Dynamic jumping helps build automatic foot control and muscle memory.

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Stage 7: Running Mode (Multi-joint dynamic + Gravity + Fast Speed)

​Children learn to maintain proper foot mechanics during running and higher-speed activities. 

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Who is this program suitable for?

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This program is designed for children with flexible flat feet, where:

• The ankle and foot joints can still move freely

• The arch appears when non-weight-bearing 

• There is no rigid structural deformity

 

Each child undergoes an individual assessment, and the training is adjusted based on age, coordination level and progress. 

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Program duration and format

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• Program duration: approximately 3 months

• Session frequecy: one session every two weeks

• Most children require at least 5 session to complete the full program

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Parents are guided on how to support progress between sessions.

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Important note for parents

 

The First Ray Control Method is a training and learning approach, not a quick fix.

 

Progress depends on:

• Correct guidance

• Repeated quality practice

• Gradual skill development

 

Our focus is on long-term foot function, not short-term cosmetic changes.

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In one sentence

 

Children do not need their feet to be "held up", they need to be taught how to use them correctly.

 

This is the philosophy behind the First Ray Control Method. 

 

Method ownership & development 

First Ray Control Method

Developed by SpineCare Engineering Sdn Bhd 

Method Author: Kau Jan Yeow 

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