Flat Feet Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

What Is Flat Feet?

Flat feet is a postural deformity in which the arches of the foot collapse, with the entire sole of the foot coming into complete or near-complete contact with the ground.

Some individuals (an estimated 20–30% of the general population) have an arch that simply never develops in one foot (unilaterally) or both feet (bilaterally).

Causes Of Flat Feet:

A flat foot is normal in infants and toddlers, because the foot’s arch hasn’t yet developed.

Most people’s arches develop throughout childhood, but some people never develop arches.

Some children have flexible flatfoot, in which the arch is visible when the child is sitting or standing on tiptoes, but disappears when the child stands.

Arches can also fall over time. Years of wear and tear can weaken the tendon that runs along the inside of your ankle and helps support your arch.

The following factors may increase the probability of developing flatfeet:

• Obesity
• Injury to your foot or ankle
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Aging
• Diabetes

Symptoms Of Flat Feet:

Most people with flatfeet do not exhibit any kind of symptoms.

However, some may experience pain while standing.

Swelling may also occur.

Diagnosis Of Flat Feet:

The following imaging tests help in diagnosing flatfeet:

• X-rays
• MRI
• CT scan
• Ultra sound

Treatment Of Flat Feet:

Treatment isn’t necessary if one doesn’t experience any pain.

However, in case of pain, the following treatment options are available:

• Therapy
• Arch supports (orthotic devices)
• Stretching exercises
• Supportive shoes
• Physical therapy
• Surgery

By : Natural Health News