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Flat feet, also called pes planus, is a foot deformity condition associated with the collapse or absence of the foot arch that supports the body weight while standing. People who have flatfeet have foot that point outward when they stand up, and the whole soles of their feet touch the ground.
When the arches do not form during childhood, flatfeet may result. It can also appear later in life due to an injury or the natural wear-and-tear strains of becoming older.
Typically, flatfeet are painless. There is no need for treatment if you are pain-free. A specialist’s assessment may be necessary if your flatfeet are painful and restricting your activities.
Symptoms
Patients with flatfeet usually do not experience any symptoms. However, some persons with flat feet have foot pain, particularly in the heel or arch region. With activity, pain could get worse. Along the inside of the ankle, swelling could develop.
If you or a member of your family suffers from foot discomfort, especially if it prevents you from doing things you want to, consult your doctor.
Causes
Because the foot’s arch has not yet formed, flatfeet are common in infants and toddlers. Most individual’s arches form throughout childhood, but some people never do. Those without arches could or could not experience issues.
Some kids have flexible flatfeet, also known as flexible flatfoot, where the arch is only noticeable when the kid is sitting or standing on their tiptoes and vanishes when the kid is standing. The majority of kids grow out of flexible flatfeet without any issues.
The syndrome can also develop in people who don’t have flat feet. Arches that have been injured may suddenly fall. Or the collapse can occur after years of deterioration. The tendon that supports the arch and runs along the inside of the ankle might weaken or tear over time. Arthritis in the foot could occur as the severity rises.
Risk factors
Flatfeet are more likely as a result of the following factors:
- Down syndrome
- Foot or ankle injuries
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Cerebral palsy
- Broken bones
- Aging
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Pregnancy
Diagnosis
A doctor will ask you to stand on your toes as they examine your feet from the front and rear to see how they function. The doctor will assess your ankle strength and pinpoint the primary source of your problem. Your shoes’ wear pattern may also provide details about your feet.
The following imaging studies may be useful in determining the root of foot pain:
- X-rays. Images of the bones and joints in the feet are produced by a straightforward X-ray using a little quantity of radiation. It is very helpful for assessing alignment and identifying arthritis.
- Computed Tomography (CT) scan. In comparison to a typical X-ray, this test produces substantially more detail by taking X-rays of the foot from several angles.
- Ultrasound. When a tendon damage is suspected, ultrasound may be utilized. Ultrasound employs sound waves to create precise images of the body’s soft tissues.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). MRIs, which use radio waves and a powerful magnet, offer superb detail of both bone and soft tissues.
Treatment
If flatfeet do not hurt, there is no need for therapy.
Therapies
A doctor might advise the following for uncomfortable flatfeet:
- Arch supports (orthotic devices). Over-the-counter arch supports may lessen the discomfort brought on by flat feet. Sometimes it’s advised to use arch supports specially created and molded to fit your feet. Although arch supports won’t cure flat feet, they frequently lessen their symptoms.
- Stretching exercises. A shortened Achilles tendon might also be present in certain people with flat feet. These tendon-stretching exercises may be beneficial.
- Physical therapy. For certain runners, flatfeet may be a factor in overuse injuries. A physical therapist can advise on how to improve gait and exercises to strengthen the muscles and tendons in the foot.
Surgery
Surgery is not just performed to treat flatfeet. Surgery may be a choice when individuals have discomfort that persistently restricts their activities after trying nonsurgical therapy. The bone and tendon issues causing the pain can be fixed through surgery.
