Diagnosis of flat feet typically involves a visual examination of the foot, supported by imaging tests.
The pain tends to increase with activity and may be accompanied by swelling along the inner ankle and arch.
This can affect how you walk or run, leading to a characteristic flat-footed gait.
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Between 20% and 30% of the general population has some degree of flat-footedness.
Overpronation causes the excessive rotation of the tibia (shin bone), increasing the risk of shin splints.
The cause and treatment of flat feet differ based on the person’s age.
During growth spurts, changes in the tightness of the calf muscles may cause temporary flat-footedness.
In some children, flat-footedness will not right itself.
If left untreated, the disorder can progress and worsen in later life.
It is commonly associated with the deterioration of the posterior tibialtendon, which runs along your inner ankle.
A past injury, such as astress fracture, may also lead to a fallen arch.
Among some of the other conditions linked to adult-acquired flat foot:
Shoes can also contribute.
Fallen arches are almost always permanent.
This may involve a visual exam as well as imaging tests to evaluate the structure of the foot.
Visual Examination
A podiatrist can usually diagnose flat feet by looking at your feet while standing.
In either case, a conservative approach is usually preferred with surgery reserved for only the more severe cases.
Surgery would be performed no later than the early teens, when the bone structure is still developing.
Orthotics would then be used to ensure the foot heals in the correct position.
Non-Surgical Treatment in Adults
Fallen arches in adults often require no treatment.
People with persistent or severe symptoms may benefit from orthotic arch supports and foot gymnastics.
Orthotic supports are used to change the structure of your foot.
Once prescribed, arch supports should be worn for the rest of your life.
Ankle foot orthoses(AFOs) are one treatment option for some people.
Treatment should also include exercises that increase arch flexibility and strength.Physical therapyoften involves these exercises.
Because the causes and location of the pain can vary, no two surgeries are ever alike.
There are two main types of surgery to treat flat feet.
Another procedure uses a subtalar implant to support the arch.
The metal implant is put in the back of the foot to correct flat feet.
Foot surgery can be costly and may require extensive recovery time.
Moreover, insurance companies tend to be reluctant to approve the procedure until all other options have been exhausted.
Even then, approvals can be a challenge.
While there are companies that can custom-make corrective shoes, it is usually a costly process.
The cost is usually between $100 to $150 per pair.
But in many cases, custom-made shoes or orthotics are not necessary.
All you may really need is the appropriate shoe fitted properly.
Surprisingly, many foot problems stem from wearing poorly fitted and sized shoes.
When selecting shoes, invest in those that compensate for any abnormalities in your gait.
You should also avoid shoes with high arches as this may cause pain and bruising.
The same applies if you find yourself favoring one foot over the other.
Prescription foot orthotics are sometimes covered by health insurance under the durable goods benefit.
It’s only if you have pain or are otherwise hobbled that you might be rejected.
This is especially true of the Army and the Marines, which have especially challenging boot camps.
Even though the terms often are used interchangeably, they are not the same thing.
Strictly speaking, “flat feet” refers to feet that have a naturally low arch.
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