Flat feet is a common foot condition in which the arches are lowered or absent, causing more of the sole to make contact with the ground. While some people have pes planus without discomfort, others may experience pain or changes in walking mechanics that affect the ankles, knees, and lower back. Here is what to know about recognizing symptoms and the management of flat feet:
Problem Signs
The most common symptom of flat feet is pain in the heel or arch area. This may worsen with activity, such as running or walking for extended periods. Swelling along the inside of the ankle can also occur, indicating stress on the supporting tendons. Another sign to look for is a change in the alignment of your legs. You may notice your feet rolling inward too much, a movement known as overpronation. This leads to pain in the foot, as well as the shin, knee, hip, or lower back. If your shoes wear down unevenly, particularly on one side, this could also be a visual indicator of fallen arches.
Causes and Risk Factors
While some people are born with flat feet or never develop arches during childhood, several factors can cause arches to fall later in life. The primary causes and risk factors include:
- Age and Wear and Tear: Years of walking, running, and standing can weaken the tendon that supports the arch.
- Obesity: Carrying excess weight places increased stress on the arches, which may lead to their collapse over time.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and weight gain during pregnancy can relax the ligaments in the feet, leading to temporary or permanent flattening.
- Trauma or Injury: Fractures, sprains, or other injuries to the foot or ankle can damage the tendons and ligaments that support the arch.
- Medical Conditions: Diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis are systemic conditions that may increase the risk of developing flat feet.
Genetics also plays a role, as the shape of your foot can be inherited.
Diagnosis and Assessment
Diagnosing flat feet generally involves a physical examination by a healthcare professional, such as a podiatrist. The doctor will observe your feet while you stand and walk to see how they function under weight-bearing conditions. They will look for the presence or absence of an arch and check for any swelling or tenderness.
During the exam, the doctor may ask you to stand on your toes. If an arch forms when you stand on your toes but disappears when you stand flat, you likely have flexible pes planus. If the arch is not visible even when on tiptoes, the condition is likely rigid pes planus.
Management Options
Treatment for flat feet depends on the severity of the symptoms and the underlying cause. Common management strategies include:
- Proper Footwear: Wearing shoes with good arch support and a firm heel counter can provide relief and improve alignment.
- Orthotics: Custom-made or over-the-counter shoe inserts provide arch support, distributing pressure more evenly across the foot.
- Physical Therapy: Stretching exercises for the Achilles tendon and strengthening exercises for the foot muscles can improve flexibility and stability.
- Activity Modification: Reducing high-impact activities that cause pain, such as running on hard surfaces, allows the feet to rest and recover.
- Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be used temporarily to reduce pain and inflammation.
In cases where conservative treatments do not provide relief, or if the foot structure is severely compromised, the podiatrist may recommend surgical intervention.
Book Your Flat Feet Evaluation
Flat feet is a prevalent condition that can affect individuals of all ages, from young children to older adults. While many people live with pes planus without issue, it can lead to pain, swelling, and alignment problems for others. Recognizing the symptoms and understanding the risk factors are the first steps toward effective management. If you suspect you have fallen arches or are experiencing foot pain, contact a qualified podiatrist near you today to book your appointment for an evaluation today.
