Cause: There are thought to be many causes of “flat feet” including hereditary bone formation, muscle length and tone. In fact, it is one of the areas podiatrists study the most.
What are they? “Fallen Arch” ankles that “roll in” are all description generally of pronation of particular joints in the foot.
This motion described as pronation may contribute to many of the problems related to feet including many which causes pain.
Pain that occurs due to “flat feet” may manifest itself in many areas of the body. They generally occur due to the effect this abnormal motion has on other bones, muscles and soft tissues of the body. Symptoms may occur in areas such as the:
- Foot including the heel, toes or metatarsals
- Shins (shin splints)
- Knee (pain or wearing)
- Lower back – pain or muscle dysfunction
- Achilles tendons – pain and tightness
How do we treat them? Flat feet that are causing pain may be treated in many different ways. Often they are treated using different types of insoles or orthoses.
Orthoses are designed to hold your feet in their correct position and subsequently relieve pain. There are many different types of orthoses. Hard or soft, sport or not. We are trained to assist with diagnosing which orthoses is right for you.
We will conduct a detailed biomechanical analysis, which may include gait analysis and biomechanical measurements to analyse the perfect device for your feet.
Please be aware that orthoses should be part of a treatment plan, which may involve stretching, muscle re-training or soft tissue therapy.
