Many individuals may not realize they have flat feet until they begin to experience symptoms such as pain in the feet after walking or discomfort in the knees. So, what exactly is flat feet, and how can it be managed? Here's an overview of the condition and its treatment options.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flat feet, or pes planus, is a condition where the arch of the feet is not visible when standing. While all infants are born with flat feet, the arch typically forms as they grow. If the arch does not develop properly, a person may have flat feet. This condition can alter the way a person walks and may lead to pain, especially during strenuous physical activity.

The arch of the foot plays a crucial role in walking. It is made up of bones and connective tissue that help with:

• Absorbing shock and providing support.

• Storing and releasing energy while walking.

• Adapting the feet to uneven surfaces.

• Protecting the nerves and blood vessels in the soles of the feet.

Causes of Flat Feet

There are several common causes of flat feet, including:

• Genetic factors: Flat feet can be inherited from parents.

• Foot or ankle injury.

• Excessive pressure on the arch from carrying excess weight.

• Arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.

• Damage, dysfunction, or rupture of the posterior tibial tendon (the connective tissue that links the calf muscles to the bones of the inner leg).

• Neurological or muscular conditions like spina bifida, muscle weakness, or cerebral palsy.

• Tendonitis caused by overuse or other damage to the tendons.

• Nerve disorders that may develop in childhood, with age, or following pregnancy.

Additionally, flat feet can develop due to risk factors such as pregnancy, diabetes, foot trauma, and health issues affecting the tendons.

Signs of Flat Feet

Not everyone with flat feet will experience symptoms. Common early symptoms include foot pain after walking, ankle discomfort, and shin splints.

Over time, individuals with flat feet may experience:

• Abnormal gait or walking pattern.

• Deformities such as bunions or hammertoes.

• Chronic pain even when not walking.

• Pain in the knees, hips, or lower back.

• Repetitive strain injuries.

• Instability when standing or walking, potentially leading to ankle sprains.

• Arthritis in the feet or ankles.

Flat Feet Treatments

Flat feet that do not cause pain generally do not require special treatment. However, for those experiencing discomfort, the following treatments may help:

Therapy

Therapies for alleviating flat feet pain include:

• Arch supports (orthotic devices): These are custom-designed supports that fit the foot's shape and help relieve symptoms. Although they won’t cure flat feet, they can reduce pain.

• Stretching exercises: Stretching can help strengthen the feet and ease discomfort while walking.

• Physical therapy: Aimed at strengthening foot muscles and tendons and improving walking mechanics.

Lifestyle Changes

Changes to daily habits can also help reduce discomfort from flat feet:

• Resting the feet by avoiding intense physical activities, like running or jumping.

• Losing weight to lessen the pressure on the feet.

• Taking pain relievers for temporary relief.

Surgery

If non-surgical treatments don’t improve the condition, a doctor may recommend surgery. Surgery may be necessary to create an arch, repair tendons, or fuse bones and joints. In some cases, the Achilles tendon may need to be lengthened to relieve pain.

If you suspect you have flat feet, it is advisable to consult with a doctor. You can also use the consultation feature on the Ai Care app, available for download on the App Store or Play Store.

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