Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, is a common condition that not only affects your physical health but can also impact your lifestyle. Having flat feet can limit your ability to partake in certain activities, such as running or hiking. It can also cause discomfort and foot pain, leg pain, and lower back pain, making it difficult to stand or walk for long periods.
At South Texas Podiatrist, Dr. Ed Davis is dedicated to establishing a relationship with the patient to best understand the underlying cause of flat feet to ensure you are receiving the right treatments.
Here are some common causes of flat feet.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, is a condition where the arch of the foot collapses and comes into contact with the ground. This happens when the tendons and ligaments in the foot are not properly supporting the arch, causing it to flatten out. This can lead to pain and discomfort in the feet, ankles, and even the legs and lower back.
Flat feet can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, age, injury, and obesity. While some people with flat feet may not experience any symptoms, others may require treatment such as custom orthotics or physical therapy to alleviate pain and improve foot function. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the alignment of the foot. It is important for individuals with flat feet to wear supportive shoes and maintain a healthy weight to help prevent further complications.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and damage to joints, including those in the feet. In some cases, RA can lead to flat feet due to the chronic inflammation and damage to the joints and ligaments in the foot. As the disease progresses, the joints may become unstable and lose their ability to support the arch of the foot, leading to a collapse and flattening of the arch, causing a flat foot.
Additionally, the inflammation caused by RA can weaken the tendons and ligaments in the foot, further contributing to the development of flat feet. People with RA who develop flat feet may experience pain, swelling, and instability in the affected foot, which can make it difficult to walk or perform daily activities.
Treatment for flat feet caused by RA may include custom orthotics or braces to provide support and stability to the foot, as well as medication to control the inflammation associated with the disease.
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the alignment of the foot and restore function. Regular monitoring and management of RA symptoms can help prevent complications such as flat feet and improve overall quality of life.
Broken Bones
Broken bones in the foot, particularly those in the middle or hindfoot, can sometimes cause flat feet. This is because a break in the bone can disrupt the alignment and structure of the foot, leading to a collapse of the arch. In some cases, the broken bone may heal improperly, causing further misalignment and contributing to the development of flat feet.
Additionally, the use of casts or braces to immobilize the foot during the healing process can weaken the muscles and tendons in the foot, further contributing to the development of flat feet. People who have broken bones in the foot and develop flat feet may experience symptoms of flat feet such as, pain, swelling, and difficulty walking or standing for long periods of time.
Treatment for flat feet caused by broken bones may include physical therapy to strengthen the foot muscles and improve flexibility, as well as custom orthotics or braces to provide support and stability to the foot. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the alignment of the foot and restore function.
Achilles Tendon Injuries
Achilles tendon injuries can sometimes cause flat feet due to the biomechanics of the foot and ankle. The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, and plays a crucial role in supporting the arch of the foot.
Injuries to the Achilles tendon, such as ruptures or tears, can weaken the tendon and alter the mechanics of the foot and ankle. This can cause the foot to roll inward, which can lead to a flattening of the arch. Additionally, the inflammation and swelling associated with Achilles tendon injuries can further weaken the muscles and tendons in the foot, contributing to the development of flat feet.
People who have suffered an Achilles tendon injury and develop flat feet may experience pain, swelling, and instability in the affected foot, which can make it difficult to walk or perform daily activities. Treatment for flat feet caused by Achilles tendon injuries may include physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility in the foot and ankle, as well as custom orthotics or braces to provide support and stability. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the alignment of the foot and restore function.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that can have serious complications, including damage to the nerves and blood vessels in the feet. Over time, the nerves and blood vessels that supply the feet may become damaged or weakened, leading to a loss of sensation and circulation. As a result, people with diabetes may experience changes in the structure and function of their feet, including the development of flat feet.
When the nerves and blood vessels that support the arch of the foot are damaged, the arch can collapse, leading to a flattening of the foot. Additionally, diabetes can cause muscle weakness and atrophy in the feet, further contributing to the development of flat feet. People with diabetes who develop flat feet may experience pain, numbness, and difficulty walking or standing for long periods of time.
Treatment for flat feet caused by diabetes may include physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility in the feet, as well as custom orthotics or braces to provide support and stability. It is important for individuals with diabetes to maintain good foot hygiene and receive regular foot exams from a healthcare provider to help prevent complications such as flat feet and other foot-related issues.
When experiencing flat feet, it is extremely important to receive immediate treatment in order to determine the underlying cause and receive the appropriate treatment. With the right diagnosis and treatment plan, you can avoid developing flat feet, minimize your symptoms and restore function to your feet.
If you are struggling with flat feet, or are interested in learning more about what can cause this condition, contact Dr. Ed Davis at South Texas Podiatry for a comprehensive evaluation or schedule an appointment directly online today.
