Flat foot syndrome is a relatively common condition, but many are still unaware of all the flat feet causes and symptoms and what they can mean for overall health. If you have this condition and wish to understand it better, you’ll find all the information you need in this blog.
What Causes Flat Feet?
Flat feet could run in your family, as the condition is hereditary. An arch bone develops as a child gets older. Since every person is different, some of us have high arches, while others have flat feet. In fact, most infants and young children have flat feet. They typically form an arch as they expand. However, this doesn’t mean that the arch will develop in all cases. Other causes of flat feet include:
- “Tight heel cords” refers to the Achilles tendons,
- Muscular issues,
- Issues with the formation of the bones in the feet.
Infants & Children
Flatfeet are common in babies and young children, and the reason behind that is that their arches haven’t formed yet. Most people grow into their arches throughout infancy, but others never do. There may or may not be issued for those without arches.
Some children have flexible flat feet where the arch is evident when the child is seated or standing on their tiptoes but goes away as they stand. Most children with flexible flat feet outgrow them without any issues.
Adults
The syndrome can also develop in people who don’t have flat feet. Arches that have been injured may suddenly fall. The collapse can occur, as well, after years of deterioration. The tendon that supports the arch and goes along the ankle might weaken or tear over time. Arthritis in the foot could occur as the severity rises.
What Are the Symptoms of Flat Feet?
Many individuals with flat feet don’t have any discomfort or other issues. Instability in posture and gait can put undue stress on your joints, resulting in lower back, hip, and knee pain.
Some simple activities, like standing on your toes, may become intolerable over time. As a result, you might walk or run with a distinctive flat-footed gait.
Some signs could be:
- Leg cramps,
- Pain in the outside of the foot, the arch, the heel, or the ankle,
- Leg or foot muscle pain,
- Alterations in your gait or discomfort when walking,
- Toe drift.
How to Diagnose Flat Feet?
There are several ways to diagnose flat feet, including:
- Physical examination: A healthcare provider will examine the feet, looking for a lack of an arch and any signs of pain or inflammation. They may also check the range of motion in the feet and ankles, and observe the way the person walks.
- Footprint test: The provider may ask the patient to stand on a piece of paper and make a footprint. A flat foot will leave a full footprint, while a normal foot will leave an arch.
- X-ray: A healthcare provider may order an X-ray to see the bones of the feet and determine the degree of flatfoot.
- MRI or CT scan: These imaging tests can provide more detailed images of the bones, muscles, and tendons in the feet and can help rule out other conditions.
- Non-weight bearing examination: A provider may examine the feet in a non-weight bearing position to get a better idea of the arch height.
It’s important to note that not all flat feet require treatment and the type of treatment depends on the cause and the symptoms. A healthcare provider will evaluate the patient’s case and determine the best course of action.
How Are Flat Feet Treated?
In most cases, a doctor suggests nonsurgical therapy as a treatment for patients with flat feet – surgery is only needed in the most severe cases. With that in mind, treatments for problems like stiffness and foot pain can include:
- Resting, putting ice, and taking anti-inflammatory medications to eliminate pain and possible inflammation,
- Physical therapy can be used to stretch and fortify tendons and muscles, leading to increased mobility and flexibility,
- Wearing support mechanisms, such as specialized braces and shoes.
Is Surgery Necessary?
Most individuals with flat feet rarely require surgery to correct stiffness or issues with their tendons or bones. After all, this condition isn’t as serious as bunion surgery. In fact, it can be corrected, like the hammertoe can be, without surgery.
Go Over Flat Feet Causes and Symptoms With Your Surgeon Before the Operation
Before taking any further steps, it’s best to get in touch with a doctor who can give you all the right information about flat feet and how to proceed with the treatment. Luxe Foot Surgery center is the right place for you because our experts will ensure you get the best medical care. Contact us and get the appointment as soon as possible.
FAQ
What Are the Three Main Causes of Flat Foot?
Numerous conditions, such as arthritis, obesity, and obesity-related accidents, can result in flat feet. Flat feet can also be hereditary or caused by aging and pregnancy.
Can Flat Feet Cause Serious Problems?
Painful flat feet can also cause ankle instability and distorted feet. Moving becomes a genuine hassle if your gait, or the way you walk, is affected or awkward as a result of the condition.
Can Flat Foot Be Corrected?
Flat feet can be corrected with surgery if necessary. This only occurs when a patient has painful feet that can’t be resolved with exercises, orthotic shoe inserts, or physical treatment.
