Are Flat Feet A Problem?

Flat feet are often viewed in a negative light and there is significant confusion regarding whether or not having a flat foot is pathologic, as well as the multitude of different treatment options.  Historically being diagnosed with flat feet kept a person from military service and parents were concerned if they noticed that their child’s arches lower than "normal".  Today, we have more information which takes fear out of the equation and replaces it with knowledge.  As a foot and ankle specialist, there are many factors which play a role in deciding the correct treatment plan.

There are two main types of flat feet: flat feet which are rigid and those which are flexible. 

If there is an abnormal flattening of the arch when you stand up, but an arch exists when you are sitting, then this is considered a flexible flat foot (keep in mind it is normal for the arch to have some collapse when you are standing since this is a normal shock absorbing function of your foot).  The second type is a rigid flat foot.  People with this type of foot have collapse of the arch when they are sitting or standing and an arch cannot be created by moving the foot since it is no longer flexible.  This type of flat foot is more difficult to treat.

The most important concept I want to pass on is that flat feet without symptoms do not need to be treated.   Some of the best professional athletes in the world have flat feet and have not kept them from achieving and succeeding at the highest athletic levels.

Flat feet that cause foot pain, ankle pain, tired/achy feet, knee pain, hip pain, back pain as well as other complaints need to be evaluated and treated.  

Things to look for in children include; when they complain that they cannot run or play as long as most of their friends, they are clumsy or drag their feet, or a child that previously was active no longer wants to be so.  Adults may have a hard time working on their feet all day, have tired achy legs, or may not enjoy walking for leisure or exercise.  However, there are a multitude of symptoms associated with flat feet.

If flat feet are causing symptoms, then the first line of treatment usually consists of conservative therapies like bracing, physical therapy, and/or anti-inflammatory medications to calm down the acute pain.  Long term it is common that prescription orthotics may be necessary to help support the foot and ankle in the proper alignment.  If conservative therapies like physical therapy, medications, and orthotics do not help, surgical intervention is often necessary.  Surgery ranges from implants that stop the collapse of the arch, cutting and realigning bones and tendons, or even fusion of joints.  It is critical to correct painful flat feet which are in the early stages before the condition leads to tendon and ligament tears, arthritis, or rigid deformities; all of which require extensive surgery to correct.

The content provided above by Dr. Arnold is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.  If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional health-care provider.