Flat Feet

There are many causes for people to suffer from flat feet. Some people are genetically born with them. Others acquire flat feet as a result of tendon rupture or dysfunction, trauma, arthritis, or skeletal disorder. Sometimes the repeated pounding on hard surfaces can also weaken the foots arch system.

Generalized foot pain due to flat feet usually does not occur for years. As time goes on the strain on the bones, joints and ligaments start to become evident, causing pain with walking or standing. Pain radiating up into the  back or front of the legs are common as fatigue syndromes begin to manifest themselves.

The doctor may have the person stand on the floor bare-footed and observe what the arch does under pressure. This is one of the most basic and simple tests that can be performed in evaluating a person’s arch.

Having a person raise into a “tip-toe” position and watching if the arch raises will help determine if the flat-footedness is due to muscle weakness or skeletal deformity.

Other tests that may be utilized to evaluate a flat foot may include studies such as X-rays, MRI and CT scans, or Ultrasound.

If flat feet are diagnosed at an early stage of development, then simple support techniques such as specialized taping, over the counter shoe inserts or custom made shoe inserts can be attempted. If the condition is diagnosed later, or the symptoms are more advanced, cast immobilization, or  even surgery may be required.