Flat Feet
What Are Flat Feet?
Flat feet is the term used when the arches on the inside of our step have fallen closer to the ground. Anatomically when we stand on our feet, the bones form an arch shape that is held up by connective tissue called the plantar fascia. If for any reason the integrity of the arch is disrupted, the bones will lower towards the ground so that the inside of the foot is flat rather than arch-shaped. This may or may not cause foot pain itself but it is something that we assess for many lower body injuries at The Physiotherapy Place.
What Do The Arches In The Foot Do?
The function of the arches in the foot are to absorb shock when we walk and to spring-load the foot in order to provide the force to propel us forward when we walk. If this important structure isn’t functioning properly then our ability to do these two things is impeded and problems can occur.
Can Flat Feet Cause Problems?
Having flat feet can cause problems but that isn’t to say that everyone with flat feet has problems. If you have flat feet from a young age and your body develops this way then often your body will adapt and be used to this as its normal and there are therefore no problems. When the foot changes from having a good arch to becoming flat then there will more likely be problems as the force dynamic in the leg changes and muscles and joints can become overworked. Some injuries that having flat feet can contribute to are:
Is It Bad To Have Flat Feet?
It isn’t bad to have flat feet as there are many people out there with this issue that have no problems. If you do have flat feet and do a lot of activity such as running and jumping then you could potentially be prone to more injuries. Thankfully this can be managed well with professional input to reduce the risk of injury.
Can Flat Feet Cause Back Pain?
This is a common question and the answer is that yes, it can be one of the contributing factors to back pain if the shock absorption function of the foot arch is not doing its job properly. Increased shock can travel up the leg into the back, increasing pressure on the lower back leading to pain.
Can You Correct Flat Feet?
Yes you can correct flat feet. Depending on what is causing the flat feet will determine what needs to be done. Getting an insole with arch support to put inside your shoes is usually a good place to start. This will stop the inside of the foot from flattening when you are walking. There are also exercises that can be done to strengthen the muscles within the foot that hold the arch up.
What To Avoid When You Have Flat Feet?
You are best to avoid doing repetitive impact activities with bare feet or flat-soled shoes. As long as you have good arch support in your footwear then activities like running and jumping are usually ok to do.
What Will A Physiotherapist Do?
A physio will:
assess the shape and mobility of you feet and ankles and also look at how you walk
determine what is causing the flat feet and if they are likely to cause problems anywhere else in your body
perform hands-on physio treatment to mobilise stiff joints or release tight muscles
design an exercise program for you to strengthen the foot muscles
advise on the need for insoles and if required, an onward referral to a podiatrist will be made
As long as it is managed properly, having flat feet shouldn’t stop you from doing anything you want to do.