What is flat feet?
Flat feet, also referred to as fallen arches or pes planus, is when one or both feet have no arches or arches that are very low. This can cause the feet to lie fully flat on the ground, which can affect a persons posture and cause pain and discomfort.
A flat or low arched foot is not considered abnormal and the height of the arch does not have any bearing on how well a foot can function. A foot that rolls in excessively with most of the weight passing over the inside border may be a cause for concern.
Types of flat foot
Flexible – The foot is poorly aligned when a person is standing but when sitting with the weight off the foot deformity usually corrects itself. It can be manipulated into a better position by hand.
Rigid – The foot remains in a poor position whether the person is weight bearing standing or not. It cannot be manipulated into a straight position by hand.
Treatment
The majority of patients find that they can control their symptoms with conservative care. Footwear is a key factor, the correct size, width and depth of shoe are key, with adequate support to hold the foot in position (laced up).
A combination of the following are often used:
– When active, a firmly laced, rigid sole with a cushioned inlay should be used
– Orthotics
– Ice packs
– Anti inflammatory and pain killing medication
– Cortisone injections
– Stretching exercises for the calf and hamstring muscles
Surgery to correct a flatfoot can be complex and is not necessary in the majority of cases. It is only considered when a person experiences severe pain that does not improve with conservative care.
Essex Nail Surgery and Foot Centre 