What is Flat Foot?
Flat foot (also called pes planus, pes planovalgus or fallen arches) are terms used to describe a
number of conditions which are characterised by feet with a low arch. In this condition
either the entire sole of the foot comes to complete or almost complete contact with
the ground. Some individuals with flat feet never suffer with pain, whilst others experience pain
in the feet and even in the joints of the legs during walking.
Causes of Flat Feet
Flat feet can be congenital (existing at birth) or acquired due to trauma, arthritis, or a number of neurological (of the nervous system) conditions such as poliomyelitis and cerebral palsy. Flat feet are also associated with other foot conditions such as metatarsalgia, plantar fasciitis and an abnormal gait.
Treatment for Flat Feet
Treatment will depend on the presence of pain and the cause of the flat foot. It can thus range from no treatment in the asymptomatic (no symptoms) patient to prescription orthotics. In some cases surgery may be required.