WHAT ARE FLAT FEET?
Individuals possessing typical, well-developed foot arches exhibit a noticeably elevated curve in the center of their feet. Once these arches are fully-developed, the tendons and ligaments within the foot and lower leg provide assistance and stability to them.
It is also called a fallen arch—occurs as the result of an undeveloped or collapsed arch. Most cases are hereditary and are present from birth. In other cases, it can develop after an injury or overuse.
This foot condition is common among children and typically doesn't cause discomfort. However, it can lead to mild arching pain in teenagers and grown-ups. In adults, the pain might manifest during or after physical exertion, with occasional dull discomfort following extended rest periods.
The cause of a fallen arch is simple—the tendons and ligaments that support the arch weaken and collapse due to too much stress or overuse.
FLAT FEET SYMPTOMS
Children whose arches do not develop aren’t always affected by this condition. However, some cases can cause problems in other areas of the body—it has been shown to throw joints out of alignment.
While many adults do not exhibit any outward signs or symptoms that indicate a flat foot, some people may feel some arch pain. More often than not, it causes noticeable fatigue in the arches, heels, knees, or lower back. Other common symptoms include:
Feet that ache
Swollen feet
Difficulty moving the foot
Back or leg pain
TESTING FOR FLAT FEET
You can conduct a straightforward self-administered test to determine whether you possess this foot condition. All that's required is a solid surface and water. Begin by wetting your feet, then stand naturally on the level surface.
Afterward, move away from the footprints and examine the impressions left behind. Individuals with regular arches will notice an imprint where the inner curve of the foot is absent. Those with this particular condition will observe a complete impression of the underside of the foot.
FLAT FEET TREATMENT
Treating this condition medically depends on the severity and cause of the problem. It’s important to have the feet examined by a podiatrist because it can lead to more serious problems like heel spurs, knee or ankle pain, or arthritis.
When experiencing flat feet pain that leads to severe discomfort or begins contributing to other conditions, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
Stretching exercises
Supportive shoes
Physical therapy
When pain or foot damage becomes severe, your doctor may recommend surgery. Contact Foot & Ankle Centers today for more information or to set up a consultation.