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Characteristics of Flat Feet

Monday, 09 November 2020 00:00

Flat feet is a condition in which the arch in the middle of the sole of the foot is absent, causing the entire sole of the foot to touch the ground when standing. About 30% of the population has flat feet. People with flat feet tend to have heels that point outwards from the ankles and floppier feet due to an excess of movement in the midfoot region. These can lead to various symptoms, such as pain, tenderness, or cramping in the feet or legs, and to the development of other foot conditions, including posterior tibialis tendonitis, tarsal tunnel syndrome, plantar fasciitis, ankle arthritis, overload metatarsalgia, and stress fractures in the bones of the feet. If you have flat feet that are causing you pain or discomfort, it is recommended that you seek the care of a podiatrist. 

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Bruce Smit, DPM from Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

  • Pain around the heel or arch area
  • Trouble standing on the tip toe
  • Swelling around the inside of the ankle
  • Flat look to one or both feet
  • Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Frankfort, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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