Flatfoot, also known as pes planus, is a condition where the arches of the feet collapse, resulting in the entire sole coming into complete or near-complete contact with the ground.
Types of Flatfoot:
- Flexible Flatfoot – Arch is visible when not standing, but flattens with weight-bearing.
- Rigid Flatfoot – Arch is absent in both weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing positions.
- Acquired Flatfoot – Typically develops in adults due to posterior tibial tendon dysfunction or trauma.
Causes:
- Genetic predisposition
- Weakness or injury of foot tendons/ligaments
- Obesity
- Arthritis
- Neuromuscular diseases
Symptoms:
- Foot pain, especially in the heel or arch
- Swelling along the inside of the ankle
- Difficulty standing on tiptoes
- Uneven shoe wear
Diagnosis:
- Physical examination
- Weight-bearing X-rays
- Foot alignment and gait analysis
Treatment:
- Non-surgical: Orthotics, physiotherapy, proper footwear, weight management
- Surgical: Required in severe or painful cases unresponsive to conservative treatment
Consult our flatfoot specialist in Ahmedabad