Flexible Flat Feet

What is flat foot?

Flatfoot is often a complex disorder, with diverse symptoms and varying degrees of deformity and disability. There are several types of flatfoot, all of which have one characteristic in common: partial or total collapse (loss) of the arch.

Other characteristics of flatfoot:

“Toe drift,” is a common characteristic of the flat foot, this is where the toes and front part of the foot point outward The heel tilts toward the outside and the ankle appears to turn in A tight Achilles tendon, which causes the heel to lift off the ground earlier when walking may make the problem worse Bunions and hammertoes may develop as a result of a flatfoot.

Causes of flatfeet:

• Foot or ankle injury
• Weak arches
• Genetics
• Loose connective tissue
• Certain conditions

Flexible flatfoot:

Flexible flatfoot is one of the most common types of flatfoot. It typically begins in childhood or adolescence and continues into adulthood. Flatfoot usually occurs in both feet and progresses in severity throughout the adult years. As the deformity worsens, the soft tissues (tendons and ligaments) of the arch may stretch or tear and can become inflamed.

The term “flexible” means that while the foot is flat when standing (weight-bearing), the arch returns when not standing.

Rigid Flat Foot:

A rigid flat foot is a result of either genetic malformation such as abnormal bone structure or tarsal coalition where bones are fused. Rigid flat foot also occurs due to osteoarthritis resulting in gradual stiffness of the flexible flat foot.

Flatfoot Symptoms:

Symptoms, which may occur in some persons with flexible flatfoot, include: Pain in the heel, arch, ankle, or along the outside of the foot “Rolled-in” ankle (over-pronation). Flatfoot can also cause pain along the shin bone (shin splint) and general aching or fatigue in the foot or leg and lower back, hip or knee pain.

Flatfoot Diagnosis:

The first stage in diagnosing flatfoot will include a specialist examining the foot and observing how it looks when you stand and sit. X-rays are usually taken to determine the severity of the disorder. Specialist scans may be used to determine the degree of the condition and any associated problems. If you are diagnosed with flatfoot but you don’t have any symptoms, your specialist will explain what you might expect in the future.