Flatfeet

What are Flatfeet?
Flatfeet (fallen arches) occur when the arch on the inside of the foot is flattened, allowing the entire sole to touch the floor when standing.

Key Point: It is usually painless. If you aren't experiencing pain, no treatment is necessary.

Symptoms

Most people have no symptoms. However, if the alignment causes strain, you may feel:

• Pain: Specifically in the heel or arch area.
• Swelling: Along the inside of the ankle.
• Leg Fatigue: Your feet get tired easily.
• Back/Knee Pain: Misalignment in the feet can travel up the legs, causing pain in the knees and lower back.

🦶 THE WET FOOT TEST
Want to check your arches at home?

1. Wet your feet.
2. Stand on a surface that shows your footprint (like concrete or a piece of paper).
3. Result: If you see the entire imprint of the bottom of your foot (with no curve inward), you likely have flat feet.

Causes

• Normal Development: Arches usually develop during childhood. In some people, they simply never develop.
• Aging: Years of wear and tear can weaken the tendon (Posterior Tibial Tendon) that supports the arch.
• Injury: A traumatic injury to the foot or ankle.
• Obesity: Excess weight puts more pressure on the arches, causing them to collapse over time.

Complications

Flat feet can alter the alignment of your legs, leading to:

• Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the tissue connecting the heel to the toes.
• Shin Splints: Pain along the shin bone.
• Bunions: A painful bump at the base of the big toe.
• Knee & Hip Pain: Due to the legs rotating inward.

Diagnosis

Doctors observe your feet while you stand and may look at the wear pattern on your shoes (flat-footed people tend to wear down the inside of the sole).

• X-Rays: To check for arthritis.
• Ultrasound/MRI: To check for tendon damage.

Treatment

If you have pain, treatment can help align the foot correctly.

1. Arch Supports (Orthotics)

Over-the-counter arch supports are a great first step. If pain persists, a doctor can prescribe custom-molded orthotics to reduce symptoms.

2. Exercises

• Heel Cord Stretch: Many people with flat feet have a tight Achilles tendon. Stretching this can relieve pain.
• Golf Ball Roll: Rolling a golf ball under your foot can massage the arch.

3. Footwear

Avoid sandals or flip-flops with no support. Choose shoes with a firm sole and good arch support.

4. Surgery

Surgery is rarely done just for flat feet. It is usually reserved for repairing a torn tendon or correcting a severe bone deformity.

Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician regarding any medical condition.