Flat Foot(Pes Planus; Pes Planovalgus; Fallen Arches)
by
Ricker Polsdorfer, MD DefinitionFeet usually have an arch on the inside portion of the foot. A flat foot is a foot that has lost or never developed this arch. Most flat feet are flexible. This type does not cause problems and does not require treatment. Rigid flat feet can cause problems and are best treated.
CausesInfants and young children naturally have flat feet. The arch should develop over time. Sometimes, the arch does not develop. It is not always clear why this happens. It may be associated with
Flat feet may develop because of:
Risk Factors TOPFactors that increase your chance of flat feet include:
Symptoms TOPFlat feet may not cause any symptoms at all. Rigid flat feet may cause:
Diagnosis TOPYour doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical and foot exam will be done. Flat feet can be diagnosed by appearance. To determine if the foot is rigid, you may be asked to do some simple tasks. Treatment TOPIf the flat foot is rigid and causing problems, you will be referred to a foot specialist. Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Options include the following: Physical Therapy, Exercises, and OrthoticsPhysical therapy may relieve discomfort. You may be given a specific stretching and strength program. You may also have treatment to help manage the discomfort. Exercises can help with the strength of the surrounding muscles. It may relieve some of the pressure in the foot. Orthotics and SupportOrthotics are shoe inserts that support the foot. These inserts may help to reduce pain and disability. In mild cases, a well-fitting pair of shoes with arch support may be all that is needed. Flat feet caused by nerve or muscle disease may need special braces. SurgeryFeet that do not respond to the treatments above may need surgery. The surgery will help to create a supportive arch. Prevention TOPWell-fitted shoes with good arch support may help prevent flat feet. Maintaining a healthy weight may also lower wear and tear on the arches. RESOURCES:American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons http://www.aaos.org American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons http://www.foothealthfacts.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Podiatric Medical Association http://www.podiatrycanada.org Nurses Entrepreneurial Foot Care Association of Canada http://www.nefca.ca References:
Adult acquired flatfoot. American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons website. Available at:
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. Updated December 2011. Accessed May 2, 2013.
Flat foot. UCSF Children’s Hospital website. Available at:
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EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
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