Treating Flat Feet

Flat feet, also known as pes planus, occur when the arch of your foot collapses, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. While flat feet are a common condition, they can sometimes lead to pain, discomfort, and affect your gait. This blog post from The Rehab Street Clinic dives into flat feet, covering:

• Understanding Flat Feet: Causes and Types

• Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms

• Treatment Options Available at The Rehab Street Clinic

What are Flat Feet?

The arch of your foot acts like a natural spring, absorbing shock and distributing pressure evenly as you walk or run. In flat feet, the arch flattens or disappears entirely, causing the weight to be distributed unevenly across your foot. This can lead to various problems, depending on the severity of the flatness.

Causes and Types of Flat Feet

Flat feet can be present at birth (congenital) or develop over time (acquired). Here's a breakdown of the different types:

• Congenital Flat Feet:  Present from birth due to underdeveloped arches.

• Acquired Flat Feet: Develop over time due to factors like:

  • Muscle weakness: Weak foot and ankle muscles can't adequately support the arch.

  • Ligament laxity: Loose ligaments can contribute to arch collapse.

  • Obesity: Excess weight puts additional stress on the arches.

  • Injury: Injuries to the foot or ankle can damage supporting structures and lead to flat feet.

Signs and Symptoms of Flat Feet

Flat feet can sometimes go unnoticed, but some common signs to watch out for include:

• Visible flattening of the arch: When standing, the entire sole of your foot touches the ground.

• Foot pain: You might experience pain in your heels, arches, ankles, or even your knees.

• Fatigue in your feet: Flat feet can cause your feet to tire more easily, especially after prolonged standing or walking.

• Painful calluses: Uneven pressure distribution can lead to callus formation on the soles of your feet.

• Abnormal gait: You might walk with your feet turned outward to compensate for the lack of arch support.

Flat Feet Treatment Options at The Rehab Street Clinic

At The Rehab Street Clinic (Delhi NCR & Gurgaon), we offer a comprehensive approach to flat feet treatment. Our goal is to alleviate pain, improve foot function, and prevent future complications. Here's what we can offer:

• Footwear Recommendations: Our physiotherapists will recommend shoes with good arch support and proper cushioning to help distribute pressure evenly and improve foot stability.

• Custom Orthotics: In some cases, custom orthotics can provide additional support and correct arch collapse by realigning your foot and ankle bones.

• Physical Therapy: A personalized exercise program focusing on strengthening the muscles around the foot and ankle can significantly improve arch stability and function. Stretching exercises can also help improve flexibility and reduce discomfort.

• Manual Therapy Techniques: Our therapists might use manual therapy techniques like massage and mobilization to improve flexibility, reduce muscle tension, and promote proper foot mechanics.

When to See a Doctor at The Rehab Street Clinic

While most cases of flat feet can be managed with conservative treatment, consult a doctor at The Rehab Street Clinic if you experience:

• Severe pain that doesn't improve with treatment

• Numbness or tingling in your feet

• Sudden changes in your walking pattern

• Suspicion of a fracture or other underlying condition

Take Charge of Your Foot Health with The Rehab Street Clinic

Flat feet are a prevalent condition, but they shouldn't limit your mobility or cause pain. The Rehab Street Clinic can help you manage flat feet and improve your overall foot health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with a qualified physiotherapist and take your first step towards pain-free feet!

Remember, early intervention is key! Addressing flat feet early can help prevent future complications and ensure optimal foot health throughout your life.