Flat feet can be a development issue since birth or a change in adulthood. Many people do not experience any type of issue from having flat feet, but others can suffer from pain and swelling, especially if the physical deformities feel pressure from shoe shape or changes in gait.
Flat feet can be diagnosed in children by observing whether or not arches form in their feet. Additionally, many children’s flat feet are associated with in-toeing or over pronation, which puts pressure on the inside of the feet. Over time, shoes will show rubber soles that are worn down on the inner parts. The same can be found for adults who over pronate their feet when they walk. It is important to correct issues of over pronation by coming in to see Dr. Brad Toll at Crofton Podiatry. Our board-certified podiatrist will treat flat feet issues with corrective orthotic insoles or shoes. Further developmental issues can be prevented for children and adults can avoid or alleviate pain and swelling.
More severe flatfoot issues to pay attention to:
Flatfoot issues that develop for adults are commonly found as a deformity that results in a collapsed arch. The causes can be due to the following:
-
Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD): Over time, the posterior tibial tendon can wear down and weaken. Sports can also strain the tendons and cause pain in the arch of the foot.
-
Rheumatoid Arthritis: This disease can affect joints and ligaments, causing a deformity in the arch. The collapsed arch can cause pain and swelling in the foot and ankles which have to work harder and compensate for the change.
-
Injuries can also cause a deformity, changing the shape of the bones, and possibly collapsing the arch.
-
Charcot Foot: This is a form of arthritis that develops without signs or pains. This is especially important for diabetics who lose feeling in their feet and may not realize that bones are starting to fracture or break. The changes in bone structure can cause deformity or a collapse in the arch, which may go unnoticed. If left untreated, the foot can become severely deformed, requiring restructuring of the bones.
If you are experiencing flatfoot pain or any of the more severe issues above, make an appointment at our Crofton, MD office, today. Early detection and treatment will prevent severe and more complex issues of foot deformity later.