Flat foot, also known as “pes planus”, is a condition where the arch of the foot is lowered or absent, causing the entire sole to touch the ground when standing. While it is common for infants to have flat feet, in adults, this condition can lead to various discomforts that may affect the knees, lower back, and other areas of the body, potentially resulting in dizziness and neck pain.
Understanding flat foot
Flat foot is characterized by the flattening of the foot’s sole, which can be noticeable from early childhood. While many children naturally outgrow this condition by the age of 6, adults who have flat feet may experience significant issues if left untreated. The lack of a proper arch can lead to misalignment and strain in other parts of the body.
Causes of flat foot
The causes of flat feet can be categorized based on age:
- In children: flat foot is considered physiological until around age 6. By age 10, a normal arch should be developed. If there are developmental issues, it may indicate underlying neurological, bony, or ligamentous problems that require further investigation.
- In adults: the causes are often acquired and can stem from dysfunctions or injuries that alter foot posture. Conditions that were not addressed during adolescence, as well as diseases like arthritis, diabetes, or polio, can also contribute. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as obesity, poor-quality footwear, and neglecting minor injuries can exacerbate the condition.
Insoles: not a complete solution
While orthopedic specialists often recommend insoles to manage flat foot, they are not a standalone solution. Although insoles can provide some relief, they do not address the underlying issues. Manual therapy, in collaboration with an osteopath, is essential to help restore the foot’s natural curvature and function.
Recognizing flat feet with an osteopath
Flat foot issues may not originate solely from the foot itself; they can also stem from problems in the knees or neck. These interconnected areas can influence each other, meaning that an issue in one part can manifest symptoms elsewhere. For children, flat foot is usually not a concern, but by age 6, improvements should be evident. If structural issues persist by age 10, intervention is crucial.In adults, flat feet can be more challenging to identify, as they are often asymptomatic. However, they can lead to long-term complications in the ankles, knees, hips, and neck. A qualified osteopath can help pinpoint the problem, identify its causes, and create a tailored manipulative therapy plan for effective treatment.
Problems associated with flat foot
While flat foot in adults is often asymptomatic, it can sometimes lead to reflexive pain in the knees, hips, or lower back. Some individuals may also experience referred pain in the neck area. Treatment options include the use of insoles, but as previously mentioned, they are not sufficient on their own. A visit to an osteopath for targeted treatment and home exercises can significantly improve symptoms and overall foot health.
