Approximately, 9 out of 10 infants are born with flat feet. For most children, the foot will develop an arch over time as their baby fat disappears and their foot muscles grow and strengthen from walking. A smaller subset of children will not develop an arch. Most of them will continue to have flexible flat feet where an arch is present only when the feet are not bearing weight. Some of these children may have a short Achilles tendon, which can limit ankle mobility. Other children might have rigid flat feet, which do not have an arch regardless of whether or not the feet are bearing weight. In most cases, flat feet in children are asymptomatic. However, if your child complains of foot pain, appears to have difficulty walking, or has a dysfunctional walking pattern, please take them to see a podiatrist.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. John R. Northrup from Superior Foot, Ankle & Wound Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
- Pain around the heel or arch area
- Trouble standing on the tip toe
- Swelling around the inside of the ankle
- Flat look to one or both feet
- Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in St. Augustine, and Palm Coast, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
