Flat Feet

Symptoms:

• Pain in the arch of the foot or heel
• Swelling along the inside of the ankle
• Difficulty standing on tiptoes
• Pain or discomfort in the feet, especially after prolonged activity or standing
• Back and leg pain due to altered alignment and posture

Causes:

• Genetics: Inherited traits can lead to flat feet.
• Injury: Trauma or injury to the foot can damage the tendons and cause flat feet.
• Arthritis: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can lead to flat feet.
• Weak arches: Some people may have a naturally low arch that collapses over time.
• Obesity: Excess weight can put additional strain on the arches, leading to flat feet.
• Aging: Tendons can weaken over time, leading to a collapse of the arch.

When to See a Physiotherapist:

• Persistent foot pain, particularly in the arch or heel
• Swelling or tenderness along the inner ankle
• Difficulty with daily activities due to foot discomfort
• Pain that does not improve with rest or home care
• Visible changes in the structure of the foot, such as the arch appearing to collapse

Risks:

• Increased foot and leg pain: Flat feet can alter the alignment of your legs, causing pain.
• Decreased mobility: Pain and discomfort can limit your ability to perform daily activities.
• Increased risk of injury: Improper foot mechanics can lead to injuries like shin splints and plantar fasciitis.
• Compensatory issues: Flat feet can cause issues in other parts of the body, such as the knees, hips, and lower back due to changes in gait and posture.

How to Prevent:

• Maintain a healthy weight: Reducing strain on your feet can help prevent flat feet.
• Wear supportive shoes: Choose footwear with good arch support and avoid wearing worn-out shoes.
• Strengthening exercises: Perform exercises to strengthen the muscles of the feet and lower legs.
• Avoid high-impact activities: Limit activities that put excessive strain on your feet.

Treatments:

• Orthotics: Custom-made or over-the-counter arch supports can provide relief.
• Supportive footwear: Shoes with a firm heel counter and adequate arch support can help.
• Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen and stretch the muscles and tendons of the feet.
• Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct structural problems.

Conclusion

Flat feet can range from a benign condition with no symptoms to a source of significant discomfort and disability. Recognizing the symptoms early and seeking appropriate treatment, such as seeing a physiotherapist, can help manage the condition effectively. Preventative measures, including maintaining a healthy weight and wearing supportive footwear, can also reduce the risk of developing flat feet or experiencing complications.