Flat Feet

What are flat feet?

The flattening or collapsing of the vertical arch of the foot sometimes linked with the turning of the heels outwards. Flat feet are one of the most common structural defects of modern mankind, and in some age groups it even reaches 80% of the population.

There are three degrees of flat feet:

• Pes valgus   1st degree – slightly collapsed arch
• Pes planovalgus   2nd degree – medium collapsed arch
• Pes planus   3rd degree – completely collapsed arch

completely collapsed arch

What causes flat feet? 
Disturbed development of bone structures
Innate weakness of certain ligament structures
Lack of appropriate orthopedic correction of foot disorders in childhood or early childhood

What types of flat feet exist? 
Flat feet in the transversal arch
Flat feet in the longitudinal and transversal arch

Can wearing inappropriate footwear cause flat feet with children? 
That is usually not the cause for flat feet, but it can, in any case, quicken its development.
Children should have regular examinations at orthopedic doctors who will recommend appropriate measures if they notice a tendency towards this deformity.

Which are the most common symptoms of flat feet? 
With some people, flat feet do not cause any symptoms. If symptoms do arise, the most common ones are:

• Leg fatigue
• Pain in the longitudinal arch, or foot arch
• Heel pain

What is the therapy for this kind of deformity? 
If the patient does not feel any symptoms, therapy is not necessary. Foot exercises and the wearing of appropriate inlays often eliminate the pain.

What type of care is recommended for foot arches?
Walking and standing on the tips of your toes, walking barefoot on the beach, rope jumping, grabbing of various objects, like a pencil, with your toes.