Expert Flat Foot Treatment
Flat feet, also referred to as fallen arches, are a common foot condition that can affect both children and adults. While many individuals with flat feet experience no symptoms, others may develop discomfort that interferes with daily activities. Understanding flat feet, their causes, and appropriate treatment options is essential for maintaining long term foot and joint health.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flat feet occur when the medial arch of the foot is lowered or absent, causing most or all of the sole to make contact with the ground during standing and walking. The arch plays an important role in shock absorption and proper weight distribution. When the arch collapses or fails to develop, the foot may become less efficient at handling impact, which can place added stress on other parts of the body.
Flat feet may be present from childhood or develop later in life due to structural or medical changes. In many cases, flat feet are flexible, meaning an arch appears when the foot is not bearing weight. In more advanced cases, the arch may remain absent at all times.
Causes of Flat Feet
Flat feet can develop for several reasons. Genetic predisposition is one of the most common causes. Damage or degeneration of the posterior tibial tendon is another frequent factor, particularly in adults. This tendon provides critical support to the arch, and dysfunction can lead to progressive flattening of the foot.
Additional contributing factors include inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, metabolic conditions like diabetes, obesity, pregnancy, aging related tendon weakening, nerve disorders, and previous foot or ankle injuries. These factors may alter the structure and function of the foot over time.
Symptoms and Clinical Signs
Many individuals with flat feet remain asymptomatic. When symptoms do occur, they often include foot fatigue, aching along the arch or heel, and swelling on the inner side of the foot or ankle. Patients may also report ankle instability, difficulty walking long distances, or pain extending into the legs, hips, or lower back due to altered biomechanics.
Uneven shoe wear and changes in gait are also common findings during clinical evaluation.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Diagnosis is typically made through a physical examination, gait assessment, and when necessary, imaging studies. Treatment is individualized and based on the presence and severity of symptoms rather than the appearance of the foot alone.
Conservative treatment is effective for most patients. This may include supportive footwear, custom orthotic devices to improve alignment, and targeted stretching and strengthening exercises. Activity modification and anti inflammatory therapies may be recommended to manage pain and swelling. Surgical intervention is reserved for cases where conservative treatment fails and symptoms significantly affect quality of life.
Prevention and Long Term Management
While flat feet cannot always be prevented, early evaluation and proper support can reduce the risk of progression and complications. Maintaining a healthy weight and addressing foot discomfort promptly are important aspects of long term foot care.
Potential Complications
If painful flat feet are left untreated, they may lead to chronic pain, tendon degeneration, joint stiffness, and reduced mobility. Secondary issues involving the ankles, knees, hips, and lower back may also develop over time.
Don't Ignore Your Flat Foot Pain. Tri County Foot & Ankle Center Can Help
Flat feet are a common condition that can often be managed successfully with appropriate care. Early assessment and individualized treatment play a key role in preventing long term complications.
At Tri County Foot & Ankle Center, located in Bayonne, East Brunswick, Jersey City, Kearny, and Randolph, NJ, our expert Podiatrists provide comprehensive podiatric care for flat feet and other foot and ankle conditions. Please call us or request an appointment online today.