Causative and risk factors
Some individuals possess flat feet since birth i.e. they inherit this condition. Others may acquire flat feet due to certain diseases or conditions. These include tarsal fusion, ruptured tendon of tibialis posterior, arthritis of the bones of the feet or a weak foot arch.
Injury or wear and tear due to overuse of feet or advancing age can also cause flat feet.
Neuromuscular diseases such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy etc can also cause flattening of feet.
Clinical presentation
Flat feet remain asymptomatic or produce mild foot symptoms. Even little effort can easily tire the feet. The patient may experience foot pain in different areas esp. the heel and the arches. Swelling of the soles of feet may be present. Standing on toes and other movements of the foot may become difficult. Since the body weight distribution is affected, it may eventually lead to pain in the back or legs.
Diagnosis & Investigations
Flat feet can be diagnosed simply by examining your feet. Sometimes your doctor may order some tests to detect the cause of flat feet. They may include X-ray, CT or MRI scan of the feet.
Flat feet must be differentiated from other foot conditions such as peroneal spastic foot, calcaneal valgus foot, congenital vertical talus and tarsal coalition.
Treatment
Most persons with flat feet are asymptomatic. Treatment is not necessary if you do not have any symptoms. Even symptomatic cases can be easily managed with certain medications and supportive measures. In general, the outlook for most cases is good.
The patient is advised to wear well-fitted shoes. Ankle braces, foot arches, insoles or custom orthotics are recommended to support the feet. The patient must lose any excess weight if present.
Physical therapy is recommended.
Medical treatment is necessary in patients with severe pain. This is usually in form of painkillers or injections of corticosteroid drugs.
Sometimes surgical intervention is deemed necessary.
