What is Flatfeet?
Flatfeet, commonly known as fallen arches, can affect as much as 50% of the population. A flatfoot is due to excessive pronation. Pronation allows the foot to adapt and react to the ground. When there is excessive pronation, the foot splays (widens), the arch drops, and excessive stress and strain occur to many of the ligament and tendon structures supporting the foot and ankle. Flatfeet can lead to many painful conditions such as heel pain, tendinitis, arthritis, and difficulty with walking, running, and/or standing. Flatfeet can affect both children and adults. A child with excessive hyperpronation could possibly develop chronic foot pain or permanent biomechanical imbalances. Treatment for flatfeet include orthotics, pain relieving measures such as anti-inflammatory medication, proper shoe wear, and physical therapy. An adult-acquired flatfoot can be a very debilitating condition.
Dr Abdul D Khan
MBBS(AMC, Vizag) MRCS(Edin, UK) MRCS(Glasg, UK) FRCS(Tr & Orth, UK) CCT(Tr & Orth, UK)