FlatFoot
FlatFoot Treatment in Kansas City, MO
What is FlatFoot?
Flatfoot, also known as fallen arches, is a condition where the entire sole of your foot touches the ground when you’re standing. Normally, a foot has an arch between the heel and the ball of the foot, but with flatfoot, this arch collapses.
It can occur in one foot or both feet and may develop during childhood or adulthood. Some people are born with flat feet, while others develop the condition over time, often due to age, injury, or conditions such as arthritis or obesity.
While flatfoot is common and often painless, in some cases, it can lead to discomfort or pain in the foot or elsewhere in the body, such as the ankles, knees, hips, or lower back.
FlatFoot Symptoms
In adults, flatfoot can present several symptoms. However, keep in mind that these symptoms may vary from person to person, and some people with flatfoot might not experience any discomfort. Common symptoms include:
- Foot pain – Especially in the heel or arch area, which might worsen with activity
- Swelling – Particularly along the inside of the ankle, which can occur as a result of the arch collapsing
- Uneven wear on shoes – You may notice that your shoes wear out faster on one side
- Difficulty standing on toes – Flatfoot can make it harder to stand on your toes, affecting balance
- Back and leg pain – In some cases, flatfoot can lead to pain in the legs, knee, hip, or lower back due to alignment issues caused by the condition
What Causes FlatFoot?
Adult-acquired flatfoot, unlike the congenital form that is present from birth, develops over time due to various factors. These include:
- Tendon dysfunction – One of the most common causes is dysfunction or damage to the posterior tibial tendon, which is the main tendon supporting the arch of the foot. This tendon can become inflamed, torn, or stretched, leading to a fallen arch
- Age – The natural aging process can result in a loss of strength in the ligaments and tendons of the foot, causing the arch to collapse
- Obesity – Excessive weight puts additional strain on the tendons and ligaments in the foot, potentially leading to flatfoot over time
- Arthritis – Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can damage the foot’s joints and cause a loss of the arch
- Injury – Trauma to the foot or ankle can damage the bones, tendons, or ligaments, contributing to the development of flatfoot
Treatment for FlatFoot
There are various treatment options for adult-acquired flatfoot, ranging from non-invasive methods to surgical procedures. The chosen approach often depends on the severity of the condition and the patient’s overall health. Common treatments include:
- Orthotic devices – Custom-designed arch supports or shoe inserts can provide support to the foot and help alleviate discomfort
- Physical therapy – Specific exercises can strengthen the foot and ankle, improving symptoms and preventing further progression
- Medications – Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and reduce inflammation
- Weight management – If obesity is a contributing factor, weight loss can reduce stress on the foot and improve symptoms
- Surgery – In severe cases or when conservative treatments don’t help, foot surgery might be recommended to correct the foot’s structure
FlatFoot Care in Kansas City
If you have any of the above symptoms, please call Orthopedic Health of Kansas City to schedule an appointment with one of our foot and ankle experts at any of our locations in Kansas City. Orthopedic Health of Kansas City will do whatever it takes to get you back on your feet, with treatments ranging from physical therapy to complicated surgery.
Nathan J. Kiewiet, M.D.
Specializing in injuries of the Foot & Ankle