Flat feet are often associated with foot problems. Many people that have flat feet are quick to blame this ‘condition’ for any issue they might be experiencing, regardless of their foot history.
But did you know that flat feet might not be the culprit?
Flat feet might not actually be the villain that they have been painted as all these years. Let’s look at what flat-footedness really means for you and your feet.
What Are Flat Feet?
‘Flat feet’ describes the structural position of your feet, having little or no arch on the inside edge of your foot. Medically this is referred to as pes planus. Having flat feet is actually really common and does not automatically determine foot or leg problems. There is a slightly greater chance of developing issues due to the position of your bones, joints, muscles and ligaments.
Having flat feet will also mean that your feet will roll in the ankle joint when you walk – known as pronation. Pronation can range from mild to severe, meaning that it might not even factor as a problem for you at all. Pronation is a natural and necessary part of each step that we take as it helps your feet to absorb shock and navigate uneven surfaces. It is when you overpronate that issues can occur.
What Are The Symptoms of Flat Feet?
Some people are born with flat feet, and some develop them later in association with other conditions. These conditions can include, injury, obesity, diabetes, tendonitis, arthritis, muscle weakness, pregnancy and many more. Basically, flat feet are caused by the way your bones, joints, muscles and ligaments are working together.
Flat feet may not necessarily be painful, but the stress they put on the surrounding body elements can cause pain and other issues. These tend to be made worse if you spend a lot of time on your feet, or undertaking high-impact activities.
Podiatrists tend to look for signs of flat feet, such as:
- A particularly worn area on the inner part of the sole of your shoe
- A bulge on the inside of your foot
- The position of your heel bone and whether it rolls outwards
- The shape of your arch and feel of your bones
- If the position of your foot drastically changes from when it is neutral to standing
Is There A Treatment?
If you happily live with flat feet and have no pain or discomfort, then you do not need any treatment. Your body will have adjusted its alignment to work accordingly with your foot position. It is only if you have developed aches, pains, or other symptoms that you need to be concerned.
If those problems do arise, then it is the symptoms associated with flat feet that are treated as opposed to treating the flat footedness. Often this can mean using customised orthotics to alter the alignment and positioning of the feet, and provide support in the required areas. Or, supportive footwear that stabilises the foot and stops the ankle rolling too far. There would also be exercises to strengthen weak muscles and improve the function of your foot.
If you are at all worried about your flat feet, or any discomfort you are experiencing, then don’t hesitate to get in touch with your podiatrist.