Flat Feet

What causes flat feet?

Flat feet are a condition passed down in families. The condition is caused by lax ligaments in the foot, resulting in a flattened arch.

Flat feet are often found in individuals with genetic conditions, such as Down syndrome and cerebral palsy. A dislocated or fractured bone in your foot also can cause the condition.

Doctors categorize flat feet as rigid or flexible. Adults age 40 and older who are sedentary and overweight are more prone to develop rigid flat feet, which can be painful. Flexible flat feet, however, typically are not painful.

What is pediatric flatfoot?

Flat feet in children is called pediatric flatfoot. As with adults, children will have a partial or total collapse of their foot arch.

What are the symptoms of pediatric flat feet?

Your child may be born with flatfoot, or it may show up years later. Although pediatric flat feet usually don’t cause noticeable symptoms, you may see some of these signs:

• Pain, tenderness, or cramping in the foot, knee, or leg
• Outward tilting of the heel
• Awkwardness or changes in walking
• Difficulty wearing shoes

You may see a change in your child’s physical activity due to flat feet. They may have less energy to play or less interest in physical activities.

Should adults see a doctor about flat feet?

It’s a good idea to contact the team at Eastside Foot & Ankle if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms:

• Your feet tire easily
• Standing causes pain
• You have trouble moving your heel or standing on your toes.
• Your feet hurt while playing sports

You also should see a doctor if you have rheumatoid arthritis or any other systemic illness that may worsen your foot problem. Flat feet also may lead to osteoarthritis in some cases.

How do podiatrists diagnose flat feet?

The Eastside Foot & Ankle team examines your foot while you’re sitting, standing, and walking. They assess your range of motion and may test your knees and hips because flat feet sometimes lead to leg problems.

The team may also recommend X-rays or other imaging tests to evaluate the severity of the condition.

What is the treatment for flatfoot?

Children usually outgrow the condition. In adults, your doctor begins with conservative recommendations, including physical therapy, shoe inserts, and pain relievers.

If these alternatives don’t help, surgical options can help to repair bones and tendons to correct the problem.

If flat feet are bothering you or a loved one, the podiatrists at Eastside Foot & Ankle can help. Call today or book a consultation online.