Flatfoot, or pes planus, is a condition in which the arch of the foot is flattened, causing it to touch the ground almost completely. This configuration of the feet disrupts the natural distribution of stress on them, resulting in discomfort and pain in the feet, knees, hips and back. One of the most serious consequences of flat feet is hyperpronation of the feet - excessive falling of the arch inward when walking, which leads to increased stress on the muscles and joints of the lower extremities.
If you or a loved one is experiencing problems related to flat feet, Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic is here to offer help. The clinic's leading specialist, podiatric surgeon Dr. Alex Yanovskiy, DPM, has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating flat feet and other foot conditions, and can help you regain comfort and freedom of movement.
Types of Flat Feet
There are several types of flat feet, depending on the shape of the foot and the degree to which its arch is disturbed.
Let's familiarize ourselves with the most common types of flat feet.
- Flexible – in a relaxed state, the arch of the foot is absent, but when you lift your toes or sit, it is restored. In the early stages, such flat feet may not cause discomfort, but over time, pain and foot fatigue often develop.
- Rigid – the feet remain flattened regardless of position or activity. This condition is usually caused by developmental abnormalities in the bones and joints of the foot.
- Longitudinal – characterized by flattening of the longitudinal arch of the foot, resulting in excessive contact of its inner part with the ground. The main symptom is overpronation, which increases the load on the joints and can lead to discomfort and pain in the knees and hips.
- Transverse – there is a flattening of the transverse arch of the foot, which leads to widening of the forefoot and increased pressure on the toe area, causing pain, corns and deformities of the toes.
- Pes planovalgus is the most complex type of flatfoot, which is accompanied not only by flattening of the arch of the foot, but also by its inward tilt. This condition often results in excessive stress on the ankles and knees, causing discomfort and impaired gait.
Understanding the type of flatfoot is important for finding the right treatment.
Causes of Flat Feet
Flat feet (pes planus) can develop because of a variety of reasons. Let's have a look at the main contributing factors:
- Congenital features of the structure of the foot
- Weakness of ligaments and muscles
- Injuries to the bones, joints, or tendons of the foot
- Excessive weight
- Diseases and inflammation of the joints and tendons
- Shoes that do not provide adequate arch support
Symptoms and Signs
Flat feet (pes planus) can present with a variety of symptoms that range from mild discomfort to severe pain. Without adequate treatment, they can worsen over time.
The main signs that may indicate the presence of flat feet are as follows:
- A feeling of fatigue in the feet
- Pain in the arch of the foot or heel, lower leg and lower back
- Swelling and inflammation of the feet
- Formation of corns and calluses
- Deformity of the toes (hammer toes, hallux valgus)
- Problems with gait and balance
If you notice one or more of these symptoms, see a specialist, it could be a sign of flat feet or other musculoskeletal problems.
Diagnostics: Understanding the Condition
At Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, we use a comprehensive approach to diagnosis to accurately diagnose flat feet (pes planus).
Physical Examination
The first step in the diagnosis involves a detailed examination of the patient's feet and evaluation of associated symptoms. The doctor examines the arch of the foot at rest and under load (standing or walking). He or she evaluates the degree of flattening of the arch, the position of the toes and heel, and the presence of pain points or swelling. The doctor may ask the patient to stand on tiptoe - if the arch of the foot is not restored, this may be a sign of rigid flat feet.
Gait analysis
A test to assess the movement of the foot while walking - confirming or ruling out the presence of overpronation. Gait analysis can detect improper load distribution and balance problems, helping to clarify the extent of the deformity and its effect on the whole body.
Foot Flexibility Tests
Testing the flexibility of the foot in different positions (sitting, standing and while moving). This helps to determine how much the arch is flattened and whether its function is maintained when the body position is changed.
Imaging techniques
X-rays, ultrasound or MRI scans may be ordered to evaluate the foot in detail and detect structural changes in the bones, joints and soft tissues.
Computerized plantography
A scan of the foot using a plantograph that shows the distribution of pressure on different areas of the foot. Computerized plantography helps to pinpoint areas of overload, which is especially important for selecting orthotic insoles or other corrective devices.
Diagnosis of flat feet helps not only to understand the current condition of the foot, but also to choose the most effective treatment option.
Treatment Options for Flat Feet
Treatment for flat feet (pes planus) depends on its type, degree, and associated symptoms. At Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic, Dr. Alex Yanovskiy, DPM, offers a variety of methods to effectively treat flat feet.
- Orthotic insoles: an effective way to correct flat feet. They help to support the arch of the foot, reduce stress on joints and muscles, and reduce overpronation. Custom-made insoles provide precise support, taking into account the anatomical features of each foot. They can significantly improve gait and reduce pain when walking or standing.
- Orthopedic shoes: an important part of treatment. These shoes are specially designed to support the arch of the foot and distribute the load properly. Orthopedic models help to eliminate discomfort and prevent further development of the deformity.
- Physica Therapy and exercises: special stretching exercises and strengthening of the muscles of the foot and ankles help to reduce the symptoms of flat feet, restore mobility and flexibility, improve balance and stabilize the arch of the foot. Regular exercise helps in preventing further progression of the condition.
- Surgical treatment: surgery is aimed at restoring the correct shape of the foot and improving its function. Depending on the severity of the case, different types of surgery can be performed - vault reconstruction, correction of bone and ligament deformities or joint correction. Surgery is recommended only when other treatments have failed and symptoms continue to worsen.
Don't put off addressing flat feet, as the condition can cause serious complications over time. Seek professional help. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Alex Yanovskiy, DPM and take the first step towards healthy feet.