What are flat feet (pes planus)?

Flat feet, or pes planus, occur when the arches of the feet collapse or are lower than normal, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. This condition can lead to poor foot alignment, discomfort, and pain in the ankles, knees, hips, and lower back.

What causes flat feet?

Flat feet can be congenital (present from birth) or acquired due to factors like injury, obesity, aging, or conditions such as arthritis. Weakness or dysfunction of the posterior tibial tendon is a common cause in adults.

What are the symptoms of flat feet?

Symptoms may include foot pain, especially in the heel or arch area, swelling along the inside of the ankle, and difficulty standing on tiptoes. In some cases, flat feet can lead to overpronation, affecting overall posture and gait.

How are flat feet diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, assessment of foot mechanics, and imaging tests like X-rays to evaluate bone structure and alignment.

What treatments are available for flat feet?

Treatment options include supportive footwear, custom orthotics, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgical intervention. The goal is to alleviate pain and improve foot function.

Can flat feet be prevented?

While not all cases can be prevented, maintaining a healthy weight, wearing supportive shoes, and avoiding high-impact activities can reduce the risk of developing flat feet or worsening the condition.

When should I see a podiatrist for flat feet?

Consult a podiatrist if you experience persistent foot pain, swelling, or difficulty with mobility. Early intervention can prevent complications and improve quality of life.

Flat Feet

Side view of a bare foot with flat arch on a light background.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when the arches of the feet collapse or are lower than normal. This condition can lead to poor foot alignment, discomfort, and even pain in the ankles, knees, hips, and lower back. Flat feet can be present from childhood or develop later in life due to various factors.

Symptoms of flat feet include:

Pain or discomfort in the arch, heel, or ball of the foot.
Feet that tire easily after standing or walking.
Swelling along the inside of the ankle.
Difficulty standing on tiptoes or maintaining balance.

Causes of Flat Feet

Flat feet can develop due to a variety of factors, such as:

Genetics: A family history of flat feet.
Injury: Trauma to the foot or ankle that damages the tendons or ligaments.
Overuse: Repetitive strain from activities like running or jumping.
Medical Conditions: Arthritis, diabetes, or obesity can increase the risk of developing flat feet.
Age-Related Changes: Tendon wear and tear over time.

How JS Podiatry Treats Flat Feet

At JS Podiatry, we provide tailored treatments to relieve pain, improve foot alignment, and enhance mobility. Our approach includes:

Custom Orthotics: Providing arch support and correcting foot alignment to reduce strain and discomfort.
Shockwave Therapy: Stimulating healing and reducing pain in chronic cases.
Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Tailored programs to improve flexibility and strengthen the muscles supporting the arch.
Biomechanical Assessments: Identifying and addressing gait issues or biomechanical imbalances.
Footwear Advice: Recommending supportive and well-cushioned footwear to improve comfort and posture.

Why Choose JS Podiatry for Flat Feet Treatment?

Experienced Podiatrists: Our team specialises in diagnosing and treating conditions like flat feet with precision and care.
Advanced Therapies: We use cutting-edge treatments, including custom orthotics and shockwave therapy, for effective results.
Holistic Care: We focus on addressing the root cause of your condition to improve overall foot health.
Accredited Clinic: We accept Medicare, DVA referrals, and offer private health fund rebates via HICAPS.
Convenient Location: Visit us at 14 Wickham Street, East Perth, WA, for expert podiatry care.

Preventing Flat Feet

While not all flat feet can be prevented, you can reduce the risk of complications by:

Wearing supportive footwear with proper arch support.
Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce strain on your feet.
Incorporating stretching and strengthening exercises into your routine.
Seeking early treatment for foot pain or discomfort.

Book Your Appointment Today

Don’t let flat feet impact your mobility or quality of life. Contact JS Podiatry for expert care and effective treatment to relieve pain and improve posture.

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FAQs:

Flat feet, or pes planus, occur when the arches of the feet collapse or are lower than normal, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. This condition can lead to poor foot alignment, discomfort, and pain in the ankles, knees, hips, and lower back.
Flat feet can be congenital (present from birth) or acquired due to factors like injury, obesity, aging, or conditions such as arthritis. Weakness or dysfunction of the posterior tibial tendon is a common cause in adults.
Symptoms may include foot pain, especially in the heel or arch area, swelling along the inside of the ankle, and difficulty standing on tiptoes. In some cases, flat feet can lead to overpronation, affecting overall posture and gait.
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, assessment of foot mechanics, and imaging tests like X-rays to evaluate bone structure and alignment.
Treatment options include supportive footwear, custom orthotics, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgical intervention. The goal is to alleviate pain and improve foot function.
While not all cases can be prevented, maintaining a healthy weight, wearing supportive shoes, and avoiding high-impact activities can reduce the risk of developing flat feet or worsening the condition.
Consult a podiatrist if you experience persistent foot pain, swelling, or difficulty with mobility. Early intervention can prevent complications and improve quality of life.