Flat-Bottomed Feet

It’s kind of fun once in a while (under the right circumstances) to observe the various shapes, sizes, and different characteristics of peoples’ feet. Almost like our fingerprints, the particular formations of our own feet are unique to us, and like “the back of our hands”, we generally know them quite well. One of the most noticeable features of an individual’s foot is in the contour of the sole-whether it’s flat, high-arched, or somewhere in between. As with all foot types, those with “flat feet” have distinctive qualities and considerations which are all their own.
There are many technical terms to describe the anatomical structure associated with a flat foot. In general, however, most feet of this type have four common characteristics: a heel which is rotated outwards, a forefoot which is deviated outwards, a collapsed arch, and a rather stiff ankle with a limited ability to bend upwards towards the knee. Many people with these findings are worried, initially, that their ankles are “turning in”.
Although it’s commonly assumed that people are simply born with flat feet, in reality there are many etiologies which can lead to this finding. Tendon ruptures or imbalances, bony abnormalities, weakened ligaments, and vascular or nerve damage can all be contributive. Thus, while it’s typical to pick out a flat-foot deformity in babies or young children, it’s also not uncommon for adults or older children to experience the onset of a flat foot or the progression of symptoms.
In general, newborns or very young children should have a foot structure which is rotated inwards. As the child ages and begins to walk, the feet gradually tend to rotate outwards to a relatively strait position by the age of six or seven years old. In contrast, feet which are already rotated outwards in the first year of life are certainly not detrimental but can often be easily corrected thanks to the flexible bone quality at that age. A series of casting is the typical mode of correction. On the other hand, there are also more rigid deformities which must be approached more aggressively. These issues can surface in later years when the child may exhibit signs such as tripping, limping, and low activity levels.
As alluded to earlier, there are a number of subtle and not so subtle causes which can progress to a flat-foot deformity in adults and adolescents as well as children. At any rate, flat feet are usually treated based on the symptoms and desired activity levels of the patient. Podiatrists take into account the anatomy, biomechanics, radiographic changes, overlying skin, and other factors when assessing a symptomatic flat foot. There are a wide variety of treatment options-both conservative and invasive-which are available. Feel free to discuss any thoughts you may have with your podiatrist. Your concerns are their concerns!
Advanced Foot Care
Robert E. Kuvent, DPM
3225 S Alma School Rd
Chandler, AZ 85248
480.917.2300
http://www.yourfeetfixer.com