Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, is a condition where the arches of the feet are lower than normal or completely flattened. This can cause the entire sole of the foot to touch the ground when standing. While flat feet are common and often painless, they can sometimes lead to discomfort or problems in the ankles, knees, and hips. This problem can cause pain and changes in how weight is distributed across the body. We’re here to review the causes of flat feet that we treat in Newtown, PA.
Common Causes of Flat Feet
You can develop flat feet for many reasons. Understanding the causes of flat feet is important for effective management and treatment. Our team will work with you to treat flat feet in Newtown, PA, no matter the cause.
Genetics and Developmental Factors
One of the most common causes of flat feet is genetics. Many people are born with feet that have low or absent arches. Flat feet are normal in infants and toddlers. The arches develop over time and usually form fully by around age six.
But in some children, the arches never fully develop, leading to a lifelong condition. This form, known as flexible flatfoot, is typically inherited and won’t cause pain or other symptoms.
Injury or Trauma
Flat feet can also develop after you injure your foot or ankle. Damage to the tendons, ligaments, or bones that support the arch can cause the arch to collapse. The posterior tibial tendon helps maintain your foot arch. If this tendon becomes inflamed or torn, it creates a condition known as posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. This problem can lead to adult-acquired flatfoot. It often develops gradually and may be painful.
Aging and Wear
The tendons and ligaments in the feet naturally weaken as we age. This weakening can reduce the foot’s ability to support its own structure, leading to a collapse of the arch. Older adults may also develop flat feet from years of wear and tear, which can alter the shape and function of the foot. The fat pads on the soles of the feet also thin out with age and can contribute to discomfort and changes in foot mechanics.
Obesity and Excess Weight
Carrying excess weight places additional stress on the feet and on the arch. Over time, this increased pressure can flatten the arch in people who already have a predisposition to flat feet. Obesity not only contributes to the development of flat feet but can also exacerbate the symptoms by increasing pain and fatigue in the legs and back.
Medical Conditions
Some medical conditions are associated with flat feet. People with rheumatoid arthritis are at a higher risk because of inflammation that can affect the joints and tendons in the foot. Diabetes can also contribute to flat feet when it leads to nerve damage that alters muscle function. In some cases, conditions like cerebral palsy, spina bifida, or muscular dystrophy, disorders that affect muscle tone and coordination, can lead to flat-footedness.
Pregnancy and Hormonal Changes
Sometimes, pregnancy can cause temporary or permanent changes in foot structure. During pregnancy, the body releases hormones that relax the ligaments in preparation for childbirth. These relaxed ligaments, combined with weight gain, can cause the arches of the feet to flatten. For some women, the feet return to normal postpartum, but for others, the change can be lasting.
When to Seek Help
While many people with flat feet experience no discomfort, others may deal with pain, swelling, or alignment issues that affect mobility. If symptoms accompany flat feet or interfere with daily activities, consult a healthcare provider. We offer custom orthotics and physical therapy. In rare cases, we may recommend surgery to help you manage the condition.
At Newton Foot and Ankle Specialists, your feet are our passion. We regularly help patients with flat feet find pain relief and better mobility. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you suspect any kind of foot condition. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.