Flat feet, also known as pes planus, is the loss of the arch on the inside of the foot. Flat feet are a common finding: Twenty percent of adults are born with flat feet, and more develop flat feet later in life. Flat feet are caused by ligaments, structures that hold bone to bone, that are looser or more stretched than normal. People with flat feet pronate, which means the mid part of the foot turns in; the heel and forefoot turn outward.
Posterior Tibial Tendonitis Dysfunction
Posterior tibial tendonitis dysfunction is a common cause of flat foot disorder. The posterior tibial tendon originates in the calf, runs behind the ankle and then attaches to the navicular bone in the middle of the side of the foot. The Center for Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine states that PTTD is caused by degenerative changes in the tendon related to obesity, diabetes, trauma, pregnancy, overuse or arthritis. A flat arch causes overpronation, or a rolling of the ankle inward, which in turn puts extra strain on the tendon when you walk or run. This results in stretching or tearing of the tendon over time, as well as irritation or inflammation. Walking becomes painful, and the tendon may ache and burn. If the tendon tears completely, the arch will be permanently flat and the foot will be rigid. You will be unable to stand on your toes on the affected foot.
Surgery may be required to repair this disorder. Wearing specially made arches artificially elevates the arch and decreases discomfort. When the tendon is inflamed, icing the area, elevating it and rest are usually prescribed to decrease the inflammation. Anti-inflammatory medications help decrease inflammation and swelling.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is often caused by flat feet. The plantar fascia is a fibrous band that connects the heel to the arch of the foot. If the band is longer than normal, or is stretched out over time because your arch has fallen and your foot has become flat, the plantar fascia is subject to greater pressure and may tear or bruise, the American Academy of Family Physicians explains. When this occurs, the heel is painful, especially with the first few steps in the morning or after you've been sitting for a long time. Treatment is rest, ice and possibly a steroid injection into the area. Wearing a special brace at night keeps the fascia stretched and can help decrease morning pain. Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen help reduce inflammation and swelling.
Achilles Tendonitis
The Achilles tendon connects the heel with the calf muscles. Overpronation from flat feet can pull on and stretch the tendon, which results in tearing and inflammation. This creates pain when walking and possibly redness and lumpiness felt over the tendon. Rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications and wearing a heel help reduce the pain and swelling in the tendon, according to the University of Michigan Health System.
