Flat Foot
INTRODUCTION
Flat feet is a condition in which the foot doesn’t have a normal arch. It may affect one foot or both feet. Most people have a gap between in the inner side of the foot and the ground when they are standing. This is referred to as an “arch”. Feet that have a low arch or no arch at all are referred to as flat feet or fallen arches.
APPEARANCE
- On standing the person will have a flat arch.
- The foot may roll over to the inner aspect.
SYMPTOMS
- The symptoms vary depending on the severity of the condition.
- The patient may experience corns or hard skin under the sole of the foot.
- Shoes may wear out quickly.
- Pain or tenderness along the arch.
- With severally fallen arches problems such as calf pain, knee pain and hip pain may be present.
CAUSE
- It may be hereditary, i.e runs in the family.
- In most cases it is caused through a biomechanical complaint (abnormal walking) such as Fore Foot Varus. Fore Foot Varus is a condition in which the subtaler joint in the foot over-pronates (rolls in too much).
- A ruptured tendon (tibilias posterior) can lead to a flat foot.
- Cerebral palsy, spins bifida and muscular dystrophy can also lead to a flat foot condition.
WHAT YOU CAN DO FOR IT
- Visit your Chiropodist/ Podiatrist if you have any queries on the diagnosis of your condition.
- Where wide fitting shoes.
- Purchase good quality insoles.
- Do not try to treat the secondary lesion (i.e Corns) yourself.
Foot Vibe Recommends
Review:
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