About Flat Feet
At Hand & Ortho, we understand that flat feet, also known as fallen arches, can cause discomfort and affect your daily activities. Flat feet occur when the arches of your feet collapse or fail to develop properly, resulting in the entire sole of the foot making contact with the ground. While many people have flat feet without experiencing symptoms, for others, it can lead to pain, fatigue, and difficulty walking. Fortunately, with proper treatment and care, flat feet can be managed effectively.
Causes
Flat feet can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Genetics, where the condition is inherited and affects the development of the arches in the feet.
- Weak or stretched tendons in the foot, which can prevent the arch from forming or maintaining its shape.
- Injury to the foot or ankle, which can damage the tendons or ligaments supporting the arch.
- Aging, as the tendons and ligaments in the feet can weaken over time, leading to a collapse of the arch.
- Obesity, which can put added pressure on the feet, contributing to the flattening of the arches.
- Pregnancy, where hormonal changes and weight gain can cause temporary flat feet.
- Health conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or neurological disorders, which can affect the structure and function of the feet.
Symptoms
Flat feet may not always cause symptoms, but if they do, you may experience:
- Foot pain, especially in the arch or heel area, that worsens with prolonged standing or walking.
- Swelling around the ankle or the bottom of the foot.
- Fatigue or discomfort after standing or walking for extended periods.
- Pain in the knees, hips, or lower back, as flat feet can affect your alignment and posture.
- Difficulty standing on tiptoe or maintaining balance, due to the lack of support from the arch.
Diagnosis
To accurately diagnose flat feet, we will conduct a thorough examination, which may include:
- Physical examination to assess the appearance of your feet and check for signs of fallen arches.
- Footprint test, where you step on a piece of paper to observe the pattern of your foot’s contact with the ground.
- X-rays to assess the alignment of your bones and the severity of the flat feet.
- Gait analysis to evaluate your walking pattern and determine how flat feet may be affecting your posture and movement.
Treatment
Treatment for flat feet depends on the severity of the condition and the symptoms you’re experiencing. Options include:
- Custom orthotics or shoe inserts to provide additional support to the arch and alleviate pressure on the feet.
- Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles in your feet and legs, which can help improve foot function and reduce pain.
- Stretching exercises to improve flexibility in the calves, Achilles tendon, and other muscles that may be contributing to discomfort.
- Proper footwear that offers arch support and cushioning, helping to reduce pain and prevent further strain on the feet.
- Anti-inflammatory medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), to reduce pain and swelling.
- Surgical intervention may be recommended in severe cases if conservative treatments do not provide relief. Surgical options can include tendon repairs, bone realignment, or even arch reconstruction.
Recovery
Recovery from flat feet treatment varies depending on the severity of the condition and the treatment approach. Here’s what you can expect:
- Physical therapy may be part of your recovery plan, helping to strengthen your feet and improve overall mobility.
- If surgery is performed, post-surgical rehabilitation will be necessary, including rest, exercises, and follow-up visits to monitor healing.
- Gradual return to activity as your feet heal, with recommendations for footwear adjustments and lifestyle changes to prevent recurrence of symptoms.
- Long-term management may include wearing custom orthotics, practicing stretching exercises, and maintaining a healthy weight to support the health of your feet.