Flat foot, or pes planus, is a condition in which the foot has no arch, causing the entire sole to contact the floor flat. The whole foot lying flat on the floor is considered sub-optimal for overall health, as the feet are our primary connection to the ground.
Flat feet cause pain, discomfort, and fatigue, particularly in the heel area, which can significantly impact the quality of life over time. They can make routine activities tiring, limit the mobility and flexibility of the ankle joint, and make balance and sudden changes in direction more challenging.
The unnatural weight distribution through flat feet notably contributes to postural problems like lower back and knee pain. The abnormal mechanics of the flat foot put extra strain on other parts, raising the risk of foot problems like tendonitis, stress fractures, and plantar fasciitis, making timely intervention critical.
What Causes Flat Feet?
The structure and shape of the feet are usually determined by genetics, so flat feet are primarily hereditary. It is more likely for someone to develop flat feet if someone in their close family has flat feet.
However, in some cases, individuals also tend to develop flat feet due to structural problems. Weak muscles and ligaments in the foot can sometimes fail to support the arch, which over time leads to flattening of the foot. In some cases, obesity, injury to the foot and ankle, and even aging may also contribute to flat feet.
Flat Feet: When Does It Need Medical Intervention?
Only some people suffer problems with flat feet instantly. While a few cases suffer no problems (symptoms may take time to show up), other cases may experience issues that gradually accumulate, leading to discomfort and fatigue over time.
Pain in the heels that radiates to the leg, general discomfort arising from long-term standing or walking, limited ankle range of motion causing balance problems, and lower back pain are common problems experienced by individuals with flat feet. People experiencing the above issues should seek immediate treatment for flat feet from qualified foot surgeons.
However, most individuals suffering from flat feet lack access to specialized medical care that can help alleviate these problems.
Flat Feet Treatment at Moonot Healthcare:
The symptoms of individuals vary in each case, so treatment needs to be comprehensive enough to address and treat specific symptoms accurately.
At Moonot Healthcare, we collaborate with India’s leading foot and ankle surgeons to provide access to expert medical care. Led by Dr. Pradeep Moonot, Moonot Healthcare has been actively working with people who lack the means to afford treatment for feet and ankle ailments.
