Flat Feet (Allen Arches) - Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
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Definition

Flat feet are a condition in which the foot doesn't have a normal arch. Some children have flat feet, also known as fallen arches. This is when the arch on the inside of the foot does not develop. It is also called pes planus or fallen arches. It is the condition in humans in which the arch of the foot collapses, with the entire sole of the foot coming into complete or near-complete contact with the ground.

Causes

In many people, that is just the shape the foot is. It may run in the family, and both feet are usually much the same and reasonably supple. The framework of the foot begins to collapse, causing the foot to flatten and adding stress to other parts of the foot.

There are many causes of flat feet. Obesity, pregnancy or repetitive pounding on a hard surface can weaken the arch leading to over-pronation. Nearly all children with flat feet have flexible flat feet. Softening of the ligaments that hold the bones together causes flexible flat feet. This is known as ligamentous laxity (looseness of the ligaments). Children with ligamentous laxity are often doubling jointed.

Symptoms

Early signs and symptoms may include:

Weakness in your lower legs, ankles and feet

High foot arches

A ruptured tendon can lead to a flat foot.

Cerebral palsy spins bifida and muscular dystrophy can also lead to a flat foot condition.

Curled toes

Difficulty lifting your foot at the ankle (footdrop)

Awkward or higher than normal step (gait)

Loss of sensation in your hands or feet

Frequent tripping or falling

Weakness in your arms and hands

Numbness and pain in your lower legs and feet

Decreased sensitivity to heat and cold

Treatment

Flexible flat feet that are painless do not require treatment. If pain due to flexible flat feet occurs, an orthotic can bring relief. This orthotics should be designed with appropriate arch support and medial rearfoot posting to prevent the over-pronation.

Footwear should also be examined to ensure there is a proper fit. Footwear with a firm heel counter is often recommended for extra support and stability. Improperly fitting footwear can lead to additional foot problems.

If you have flat feet and foot pain, especially if one foot is flatter than the other, you should have an evaluation by an orthopaedic surgeon. You may have a problem with the posterior tibial tendon, the main tendon that supports the arch. Factors that can contribute to this problem are obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, certain types of arthritis and athletic overuse.

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