Flat Foot: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

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Unpacking the Complexities of Flat Foot

Flat foot, or fallen arches, is a common condition affecting numerous individuals worldwide. This page aims to provide an exhaustive understanding of flat foot, its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options. It is essential to understand this condition, whether you’re affected by it or know someone who is, for appropriate management and care.

Decoding Flat Foot

Flat foot is a condition where the arches of the feet are flattened, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. This could occur in one or both feet and may be present from birth or develop later. A low or absent arch result in the foot appearing flat, leading to flat foot problems such as pain, fatigue, swelling, and instability.

The structure and function of your feet may be affected by flat feet. The arches, which act as shock absorbers, distribute the forces of walking or running evenly across the foot. Flat foot compromises this shock absorption mechanism, leading to over pronation of the foot, resulting in increased stress on the feet, ankles, legs, and lower back.

Contrary to common belief, flat foot is not due to laziness or poor posture. While genetics and certain medical conditions may cause flat foot in some individuals, others may acquire the condition due to factors like injury, aging, obesity, or prolonged standing on hard surfaces. If you think you have flat foot or are experiencing flat feet pain, it is crucial to seek professional medical advice for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.  Ask your physician what the best arch support is for your type of foot. 

Dr. Vosseller explains the arches of the foot

The Causes and Risk Factors

Flat foot, a common foot condition, can be caused by various factors. Some individuals are predisposed to having flat feet due to genetic factors and family history. Muscular imbalances and weak arch support for flat feet, injuries, and certain medical conditions like arthritis, diabetes, and obesity can also contribute to the development of flat feet. However, it’s important to note that not everyone with flat feet experiences pain or discomfort. If you do experience flat feet pain or difficulty with activities, seeking medical advice is recommended.

Recognizing Symptoms and Diagnosis

Flat foot can cause discomfort and flat feet pain in your feet and ankles. Recognizing the signs of flat foot is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Common symptoms include over pronation, where the feet roll inward excessively while walking, and foot fatigue due to lack of proper arch support for flat feet.

Flat feet can be either flexible or rigid. Flexible flat feet are characterized by an arch that appears when the person is sitting or on tiptoes but disappears when standing flat, usually causing no significant pain. Rigid flat feet, on the other hand, remain flattened regardless of foot position and can cause more severe symptoms.

Diagnosing flat foot may involve a physical examination, X-rays, foot pressure analysis, CT scan, or MRI. If you suspect you have flat foot or are experiencing related symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

Navigating Treatment and Management

Flat foot, while not always painful, can cause discomfort in the feet, ankles, and legs. However, there are several non-surgical treatments that can help manage the symptoms of flat foot. Orthotic devices like flat foot insoles and supportive footwear are often effective in providing flat foot arch support and improved alignment. Arch support insoles for flat feet help distribute pressure evenly across the feet, reducing strain on the muscles and ligaments.

Physical therapy exercises and stretches can be beneficial for managing flat feet by strengthening the muscles, improving flexibility, and promoting proper alignment. Examples include toe curls, calf raises, ankle rotations, standing calf stretches, and toe stretches.

Seated Calf Raise

It’s important to remember that the effectiveness of these non-surgical approaches may vary depending on the severity of your flat feet. Sometimes surgery may be needed for flat feet for those patients who do not respond adequately to insoles and physical therapy.

Consulting with a healthcare professional, such as an orthopedist or physical therapist, who can provide personalized recommendations is always recommended.

Dr. Turner Vosseller

At JOI Online, our dedicated healthcare providers specialize in diagnosing and treating various foot conditions, including heel pain. Don’t delay in seeking help, contact us today to schedule an appointment and find the relief you deserve.

Related Links: Fixing Ankle Arthritis: Total Ankle Replacement, Heel Pain Treatment, Hammer Toes, What are Bunions and How Do You Fix Them? and this video on Achilles Tendon injuries. 

By: Dr. Turner Vosseller, Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Surgeon

Dr. Vosseller is an Internationally Recognized Orthopaedic Surgeon who practices at the Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute San Marco Clinic, and he is currently accepting new patients.  JOI is Northeast Florida’s most respected orthopedic practice. To schedule an appointment, please call 904-JOI-2000 or click below to schedule online.