Understanding Flat Feet Blog

Pes planus, or flatfoot, is a condition where the arch of the foot collapses, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. While it's often seen in children and sometimes resolves with age, it can persist into adulthood and cause strain, instability, and even long-term posture issues if not managed well. Understanding the underlying causes and treatment options is key to maintaining long-term foot health.

What is Pes Planus?

Flatfoot is characterized by a flattened arch, which alters the way a person stands or walks. It may affect one or both feet and can develop during childhood or later in life due to injury, aging, or chronic health conditions. In some cases, pes planus is painless, but in others, it can lead to discomfort, fatigue, and structural misalignments in the knees or hips.

Types of Pes Planus

• Flexible Flatfoot: This type retains the arch when the foot is off the ground but loses it while standing. It is common in children and young adults and may or may not cause pain.

• Rigid Flatfoot: The arch is missing whether weight-bearing or not. It typically results from underlying conditions and often requires professional medical intervention.

Causes of Pes Planus

Pes planus may stem from several root causes:

• Genetics: Flatfoot often runs in families.

• Injury: Past trauma to the foot or ankle can weaken the posterior tibial tendon, crucial for maintaining the arch.

• Obesity: Extra body weight places increased pressure on the arch, leading to collapse over time.

• Arthritis: Inflammatory joint diseases can affect the foot’s alignment and flexibility.

• Neuromuscular Disorders: Conditions such as cerebral palsy can alter muscle tone and posture, contributing to flatfoot.

Symptoms of Pes Planus

Some individuals with flatfoot experience no issues, while others may develop:

• Pain in the heel, arch, or ankle

• Swelling on the inner side of the foot

• Hip or knee pain due to altered walking patterns

• A general sense of fatigue after standing or walking for extended periods

How to Identify Flatfoot

A simple home test—known as the wet footprint test—can offer clues. Wet your feet and step on a surface like cardboard or tile. A full imprint of your foot, with little to no curve where the arch should be, indicates flatfoot. However, for an accurate diagnosis, consulting a healthcare provider is always best.

Treatment Options for Pes Planus

Effective treatment depends on the severity and underlying cause. Many people manage flatfoot successfully through conservative methods, though surgery may be necessary for more advanced cases.

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Orthotic Devices: Insoles and arch-supporting inserts are foundational tools in managing flatfoot discomfort. At DiabeticShoe.in, we offer specially engineered Men’s Shoes and Women’s Shoes that come with soft, contoured footbeds to reduce pressure on the arch and heel.

• Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening routines can realign the feet and reduce strain.

• Weight Management: Reducing weight can alleviate the additional load on the foot arch, easing symptoms over time.

• Supportive Footwear: Shoes with firm heel counters, cushioned midsoles, and anatomical arch design are essential. 

Surgical Treatments

Surgical correction is considered only when non-invasive methods fail to provide relief and symptoms worsen:

• Tendon Transfer Surgery: Reinforces the weakened tendons to help restore the arch.

• Osteotomy: Bone reshaping surgery to improve foot alignment.

• Arthrodesis: Joint fusion to stabilize severe deformities and relieve pain.

Living with Pes Planus

Pes planus may be a structural condition, but its symptoms and effects can often be managed well with the right care. For daily life, footwear makes a significant difference. Many customers at DiabeticShoe.in have found relief through our ergonomic footwear collections designed to cushion, support, and stabilize the foot during everyday activities.

Daily Management Tips

• Visit your podiatrist or orthopedist regularly for updates on your condition

• Wear supportive, medically-approved shoes like those offered by DiabeticShoe.in

• Engage in exercises that target ankle mobility and arch strength

• Avoid walking barefoot on hard floors, especially for long durations

Step into Relief Before It’s Too Late

Ignoring pes planus can lead to long-term misalignment and discomfort in other parts of the body. Addressing it early with therapeutic footwear and lifestyle adjustments is not just helpful—it’s essential. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been managing it for years, your feet deserve comfort and support tailored to their needs.