Flat Feet
Flat feet, or pes planus, is a common type of foot deformity. The arch in the foot simply never develops or it collapses over time. For people with flat feet, the entire sole of the foot lies flat on the ground when standing or walking.
Causes of flat feet
The arches in feet develop during childhood, so flat feet are normal in small children and toddlers. Some people simply never develop arches. Odds are that if one or both parents have flat feet, their children will have flat feet as well.
Arches can also fall naturally over time or collapse due to injury or trauma. The following factors can contribute to fallen arches:
Flat feet symptoms
Flat feet are characterized by the absence of arches. The soles of the feet lie flat against the ground with no space beneath the mid foot area. Many people go through life with flat feet and experience no pain or discomfort; however, flat feet can sometimes contribute to ankle and knee pain. This is because flat feet can throw off the alignment of the legs.
Other symptoms of flat feet include:
Flat feet treatment
Stiff and painful flat feet should be examined by Dr. Litsas. Treatment options can include rest, anti-inflammatory medication, stretching, custom molded functional orthotics restoring the proper alignment of the foot, and surgery as a last resort to recreate the arch.
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