Have you ever looked at your feet and noticed that the arch along the inside is missing? Or maybe when you look at your footprint, you have a full impression and not a curved structure. Well, that could mean you have a common condition called flat feet. Although flat feet usually are painless or go unnoticed, for some people it can cause discomfort, limit mobility, and create alignment problems in the ankles, knees, hips, or lower back.
In this complete guide, we will clarify the question of what is flat feet, what causes flat feet, what are the symptoms for flat feet, and when is the right time to see a doctor. We also offer various treatment options to manage flat feet.
What is Flat Feet?
Flat feet, also called pes planus, is a condition that results when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to contact the ground. The arch of the normal foot performs a natural shock-absorbing function that supports our weight and improves our sense of stability, but the flattened arch leads to asymmetrical weight distribution and muscle/joint stress.
Types of Flat Fleet
There are two types of flat feet:
- Flexible Flat Feet: This is the most prevalent type. The arch is observable while the person is sitting or on their toes but is flattened while standing. This type often begins in childhood and carries through to adulthood.
- Rigid Flat Feet: With this type, the arch is flat in all positions. This type is less common and can be caused by congenital or acquired conditions such as arthritis or tarsal coalition.
How to Cure Flat Feet?
Treating flat feet depends on how severe the problem is and if it is painful or affecting your daily activities. Most of flexible flat foot don’t require any treatment, it is asymptomatic in more than 70% population till late ages. Few may require conservative treatments. Rarely flexible flat feet require surgery. Most of rigid foot require some kind of intervention. Here are top ways how to cure flat feet:
Conservative Treatments
Proper Footwear and Orthotic Inserts
- Supportive shoes that have arch support can help reduce pressure points on your feet.
- Custom orthotic insoles can help to realign the foot for better alignment and lessen pressure points.
- Avoid flat sandals and footwear that don’t support you, like flip-flops or high heels.
Physical Therapy and Exercises
- Stretching exercises like heel cord stretches and toe curls help to strengthen arch-supporting muscles.
- Strength training of the calves, ankles, and posterior tibial tendons can enhance foot function.
- Balance exercises can create improved posture and gait.
Medical Interventions
Use of Braces or Supportive Devices
- Ankle braces or foot supports may increase the stability of your feet, especially if there is pain.
Surgical Options for Severe Cases
- It is important to note that surgery is rarely the first option, but may be necessary in cases of severe pain or when other treatments fail.
- Procedures may include tendon reconstruction, bone realignment, or joint fusion, depending on the cause.
What Causes Flat Feet?
Flat feet and what causes them is a common question among people. There is no universal answer to what causes flat feet, as the cause can include a combination of genetic and environmental influences.
Common Causes Include
Genetics and Family History
If flat feet are genetic and several members of your family have flat feet, you are likely to inherit flat feet.
Developmental Factors
Some children’s arches developmentally do not develop, nor do some children ever form an arch, and that continues into adulthood.
Injury or Trauma
Sprains, fractures, or tendon injury, particularly the posterior tibial tendon, can collapse the arch.
Medical Conditions
Medical conditions such as arthritis (septic arthritis ,rheumatoid arthritis) , obesity, diabetes, or some neuromuscular conditions can erode the structural integrity of the foot with time.
Symptoms of Flat Feet
Flat feet do not always cause issues; however, when symptoms show themselves, they can disrupt daily comfort and mobility. Here are five main indicators that suggest you may be experiencing flat feet:
Pain in the Feet or Arches
A common symptom is aching pain in the arch or heel, especially after long-standing or walking days. This is aggravated with physical activity; the pain is produced through strained ligaments and muscles that support the foot.
Swelling Around the Ankles or Feet
Most individuals with flat feet notice swelling along the inside of the foot or the ankle. The absence of arch support puts extra strain on the soft tissue and joints along the lower foot and outside of the foot.
Leg and Back Pain
Being that flat feet have an impact on posture and the lower limb alignment, it is often the case that strain is transferred upward, which results in knee, hip, or lower back pain. Gradually, pain can accumulate in areas that extend beyond the feet due to poor biomechanics with movement.
Tired or Fatigued Feet
Experiencing unusual tiredness, or fatigue, in the feet and legs after very little activity is another warning sign. This fatigue is often the result of muscles working extra hard to make up for the lack of arch support.
Difficulty Finding Comfortable Footwear
You may have difficulty finding shoes that feel good if you have flat feet. Shoes may not feel right, or wear in an unusual way—often on the inner edges—due to the way your feet strike the ground.
If you experience one or more of these regular symptoms, consult with your healthcare professional so you can obtain an evaluation.
Diagnosing Flat Feet
Correctly diagnosing flat feet is critical to understanding how to treat your affliction. If you believe you have flat feet – especially if you are experiencing pain – don’t hesitate to seek medical care!
How Healthcare Professionals Diagnose Flat Feet:
Visual Inspection
A doctor may observe your feet while you are standing and walking, checking to see the arch of your foot or how your feet are aligned.
Footprint Tests
The footprint test is a simple test that may help determine if the arch is still intact or has collapsed.
Imaging Techniques
X-rays, CT scans or MRIs may be ordered if your doctor wants to see if there is damage to the bone structure or the soft tissue.
Importance of Consulting a Specialist
If the symptom continues, possibly seeing an orthopedic doctor in Prayagraj Allahabad, or a legitimate podiatrist would be the best idea! They can provide a prescription treatment plan unique to you and rule out other possibilities that may be causing discomfort in the foot.
Conclusion
While flat feet may seem trivial, they can lead to chronic pain and mobility difficulties if not properly managed. Knowing what flat feet are, what the symptoms are, and knowing the causes of flat feet are the first steps in finding relief. Many people with conservative lifestyle changes are able to manage well. However, others may require medical treatment.
If you’re experiencing pain in your foot, fatiguing or changes in ambulation, it’s time to seek support. Don’t ignore the signs—your foot carries the weight of your world.
Need Support?
Trishla Ortho has orthopedic experts available to provide consultation and support for your feet and ankles. If you are in the vicinity and looking for an orthopedic doctor in Allahabad—we will support you every step of the way.
