Flat Feet
Flat feet, also known as Pes Planus is a term used to describe the flattening of the medial longitudinal arch of the foot when standing or walking.
The flattening of the foot happens when a joint at the back of the foot, called the subtalar joint, pronates or “rolls in”.
Pronation is a normal movement that occurs when we are standing and walking, it is in fact, a vital movement that helps our body absorb shock and walk on uneven terrain. Everyone needs to pronate and needs their feet to “flatten out” however, problems can occur if our ankles roll in and our arches flatten out too much, too quickly or are stuck in that position.
When this occurs it can increase your risk of certain injuries.
Some common symptoms that can occur from flat feet include..
Plantar fasciitis
Ball of foot pain
Nueromas
Bursitis
Knee pain including runners knee, patellofemoral pain and meniscus injury
Bunions
Ankle pain
Tendonopathy
Hip pain
Lower back pain
If you have any of these issues it may be worth investigating whether your flat/pronated feet are contributing.
What causes flat feet?
There are multiple reasons people have or develop flat feet. These include..
Hypermobility of the ligaments in the foot that support the arch. This occurs naturally in around 10% of the population.
Weakness in the muscles that support the arch.
Abnormal rotation of the legs and hips. Can be caused by weak muscles around the hip or tight muscles around the hip.
Genetic predisposition
Abnormal biomechanical patterns.
Common flat feet treatments
It is important to determine the underlying cause of your flat feet, to do this, we typically perform a biomechanical assessment. This is an in-depth investigation into the factors contributing to your flat feet that allows us to determine what effects they are having on your body. Once this is established, an individualised treatment plan will be put into place.
Not all flat feet require treatment. If they do, we utilise treatments that are specific your short and long term goals.
Treatment may involve things such as..
Strapping
Orthotic therapy
Footwear modifications
Footwear advice
Muscle strengthening and stretching programs
Foot mobilisation therapy
Our highly qualified and award winning podiatrists are experts in biomechanics and its our commitment to provide the highest quality of care to each individual. We are dedicated to providing entirely tailor-made diagnosis and treatment services that get results fast. If you are suffering from flat feet, there is no need to live with it any longer. Book a consultation with our Podiatrists to discuss your condition and we will get you back pain-free, doing the things you love as quickly as possible.