FALLEN ARCHES
If you suffer from fallen arches, don’t hesitate to Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists.
Looking at a foot from the inner side, you’ll notice an upward curve in the middle known as the arch. Tight bands of tissue known as Tendons attach the heel bone to the foot bones, forming the arch. When the tendons all pull the proper amount, then your foot forms a moderate, normal arch. When the tendons do not pull together properly, they fail to create an arch. Foot and Ankle specialists call this a “flat foot” or fallen arch. In more technical terms, some physicians know flat foot as “Pes Planus”
Causes of Flat Feet and Fallen Arches
Flat feet in adults can result from various primary and secondary factors. Common causes include birth defects and tendon issues, such as stretches or tears. Damage or inflammation of the posterior tibial tendon (PTT), which links the lower leg, ankle, and arch, is also a frequent cause. Broken or dislocated bones can harm the arch, while autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can lead to sagging arches.
Secondary factors contributing to fallen arches include obesity, which places extra stress on the feet, leading to the collapse of the arches over time. Diabetes can cause peripheral neuropathy, reducing sensation in the feet and contributing to the development of flat feet. Aging naturally weakens tendons and ligaments, increasing the likelihood of arch collapse. Pregnancy introduces hormonal changes that relax ligaments and adds additional weight, both of which can flatten the arches.
Combined, these factors create a complex interplay of stress and strain on the feet, leading to the gradual or sudden development of flat feet in adults. Managing underlying conditions and maintaining a healthy weight can help mitigate the risk of fallen arches, while supportive footwear and orthotics can provide relief and stability for those already affected.
Symptoms of Flat Feet and Fallen Arches
Many patients with Pes Planus do not present harmful symptoms and do not require treatment. Some patients with seriously fallen arches may notice:
- Their Feet “tire out” easily.
- The arches and heels of their feet feel particularly painful or achy.
- The inside bottom area of the feet swell up.
- Patients find excess foot movement difficult, such as standing tip-toe.
- Leg and back pain
Specialists urge patients to contact their physicians If they notice any of these symptoms.
Treatment for Flat Feet and Fallen Arches
The treatment plan for flat feet and fallen arches depends on the severity of the issue as well as the cause. If patients determine that their flat feet pose no difficulties, then they most likely do not need treatment. In more severe cases, Foot and Ankle Specialists may suggest the following treatments:
- Resting the feet and applying ice
- Stretching exercises and physical therapy
- Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories
- Special Orthotic devices, braces, casts, or shoe inserts
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
If patients suffer from severe pain related to fallen arches, your doctor may recommend surgery. Procedures may include the following:
- Fusing foot or ankle bones together (arthrodesis)
- Removing bones or bony growths — also called spurs (excision)
- Cutting or changing the shape of the bone (osteotomy)
- Cleaning the tendons’ protective coverings (synovectomy)
- Adding tendon from other parts of your body to tendons in your foot to help balance the “pull” of the tendons and form an arch (tendon transfer)
- Grafting bone to your foot to make the arch rise more naturally (lateral column lengthening)
If you would like to speak to one of our texas orthopedic foot and ankle specialists, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.
