Flat feet is a common condition resulting from the flattening of the arch that naturally exists in the sole of the foot. As a result, the sole of the foot comes into contact with the ground.
Types:
• Simple (Flexible): Caused by weak muscles responsible for maintaining the arch and the relationship between the bones of the foot. This type is more common in young children, where the foot arch is visible when sitting, but disappears when standing, often resolving without any health issues as the child grows.
• Severe: Resulting from bone deformities or misalignment, such as Congenital Vertical Talus. Accurate diagnosis requires radiological examinations such as X-rays, CT scans, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging.
Factors that may increase the risk of flat feet:
• Obesity
• Foot or ankle injuries
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Aging
• Diabetes
Treatment:
• Arch support insoles (orthopedic shoes) do not cure the condition but may help alleviate pain. There is another perspective suggesting that orthopedic shoes weaken foot muscles as they perform their function, preventing them from working, and therefore correcting the arch while wearing the shoes but returning to flatness once removed. Additionally, wearing orthopedic shoes 24 hours a day can cause discomfort.
• Some exercises can strengthen the small muscles in the feet, such as walking barefoot on sand or engaging in sports.
• Physiotherapy: Physiotherapists can provide exercises to strengthen the muscles and tendons in the feet and offer guidance for improving walking.
• Surgery: In severe cases, such as Congenital Vertical Talus or cases restricting activity due to pain, surgical intervention may be the best option.
Wishing you all good health and well-being.
Dr. Mahdi Abd Al-Sahib
Orthopedic surgeon
