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flat footA common (20–30% of the population) complaint, which affects many age groups. True flat feet (as defined by orthopaedists) are uncommon. Often, a parent will perceive flattening of the foot when a child first ambulates; laxity of the ligaments may result in collapse of the foot with valgus on the hind-foot, and eversion or pronation of the forefoot. Avalgus deformity of > 10% requires therapy; often a shoe will suffice as therapy. Flat foot grades are based on disability, ranging from mere strain or tenderness to osseous rigidity. The peroneal spastic flat feet variant is commonly due to abnormal coalescence between 2 or more tarsal bones, often at the calcaneocuboid, calcaneonavicular, and talocalcaneal bars.
Flat foot, acquired types
Ligamentous—Due to tendino-ligamentous trauma
Muscular—Due to poor control or incoordination (from e.g., poliomyelitis or cerebral palsy).
Osseous—Due to trauma or degeneration.
Postural—Due to internal tibial torsion as occurs in obesity, muscle fatigue, faulty footwear and/or strenuous work on feet, and arthritis.
flat footPes planus Orthopedics A common complaint, which affects many age groups; true FF are uncommon; often the parent will perceive flattening of the foot when a child first ambulates; laxity of the ligaments may result in collapse of the foot with valgus on the hindfoot, and eversion or pronation of the forefoot; a valgus deformity of > 10% requires therapy; often a shoe will suffice as therapy
flat footThe condition in which the normal longitudinal arch of the foot has collapsed. This is mainly due to weakness of the muscles that support the arch and this may result from prolonged standing leading to muscle fatigue, or from illness. The foot turns out and the condition tends to be painful while it is developing and painless thereafter. Treatment involves strengthening the weak muscles by exercises and support of the foot so that the arch is restored.
Patient discussion about flat foot
Q. Can flat feet be repaired by surgery? I have flat feet and I’m looking for all sorts of treatments for it- I heard there is a surgery for it- is it helpful?
Q. I think my son has flat foot, how to tell for sure? I didn't notice it before, he is 3 years old now and all shoes hurt him. Does it mean he has flat foot? what else can it be?