ABSTRACT – Flat Feet is also known as Pes Planus, a deformity in which the feet is in complete...
Flat feet
Flat feet is also known as Pes Planus, a deformity in which the feet is in complete contact with the ground. This condition might occur at the tie of birth or develop as the age increase. Due to the deformed alignment of the leg, problem to the ankles and knees arises.
CAUSES –
It can affect children because of the under developed arches:
Genetic disorders such as Calcaneovalgus, Congenital vertical talus, Dyspraxia, Ehlers- Danlos Syndrome, Hypermobility, Ligamentous Laxity
Obesity
In adults, it is also called as Fallen Arches or Adult Acquired Flat Foot. The causes could be:
Leg length inequality
Pregnancy
Marfan’s syndrome – It is a genetic disorder which affects connective tissues.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Scoliosis – Unilateral Flat Footedness
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS –
Pain in the mid-foot region
Hip, knee and lower back pain
Swollen inside feet’s bottom
Standing on toes becomes difficult
DIAGNOSIS –
Visual Examination
Wet Foot Print Test – The print of the wet feet is taken on a plain surface
Shoe Inspection Test
The ‘Too Many Toes’ Test – The number of toes which are peeking out is counted by standing behind the patient
The tiptoe test – Used to check whether one has flexible or rigid flat feet
Imaging Tests – X-Ray, CT Scan, Ultrasounds, MRI
TREATMENT –
Foot gymnastic
Runner’s stretch – Used to stretch calf muscle
Downward dog – A yoga position
Therapeutic massages
Custom made insoles
Surgery – Flat foot surgery
Weight loss
PREVENTIONS-
Wear appropriate shoes
Control the blood sugar levels, high blood pressure, obesity
Avoid activities that involves stress on the feet
Avoid sports such as basketball, hockey, soccer etc
RISK FACTORS –
Obesity
Leg injury
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Aging
Diabetes
EPIDEMIOLOGY –
Out of the total population, about 30% of the people have flat foot.