Flat Feet: Concerns and Solutions for Better Foot Health

Q: Flat Feet: Concerns and Solutions for Better Foot Health

Hello Mr. <br>Hulk： Individuals with flat feet experience eversion of the forefoot due to the collapse of the arch, resulting in a wider foot because of the loss of the transverse arch. <br>During walking, the pressure is often more medially distributed compared to the average pe

Flatfoot and pes planus?

Hello, Dr.
Hsu.
I am 179 cm tall and weigh 90 kg, and I have hereditary flat feet, as both my grandmother and grandfather had the same condition.
I would like to ask you:
1.
If I do not use any aids or corrective measures but frequently walk long distances and stand for extended periods, will there be any adverse effects in the future?
2.
I notice that when I walk, the pressure is concentrated on the inner sides of my feet, and I hardly use the outer sides, which often causes blisters on my big toes.
Is it possible to improve this without using arch supports?
3.
I am unsure if my flat feet are the reason, but my feet are very wide.
Classmates of the same height only need to wear size 10 shoes, while I struggle to fit into size 12.
It is very difficult to find shoes.
Is it possible to undergo a bone reduction surgery or something similar to narrow my feet? Thank you for your response!

Hao Ke, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/05/15

Dr. Xu Zhenrong reply Rehabilitation

Hello Mr.
Hulk: Individuals with flat feet experience eversion of the forefoot due to the collapse of the arch, resulting in a wider foot because of the loss of the transverse arch.
During walking, the pressure is often more medially distributed compared to the average person, leading to increased pressure on the big toe.
Changes in foot pressure can affect the movements of the ankle, knee, and hip joints.
Prolonged walking can frequently result in fatigue of the foot muscles, ankle pain, and knee inflammation.
The solution is to wear orthotic insoles that align pressure distribution to reduce discomfort, or to consider surgical correction.
Severe flatfoot, if not addressed early, can lead to future joint degeneration and deformity.
Your condition already requires the use of insoles to alleviate excessive pressure on the big toe, and wearing insoles can help reduce pain during long walks.
Regarding your footwear, it is advisable to choose shoes with a wide toe box, as these will be more comfortable and less likely to cause deformities in the toes due to improper pressure.
I recommend that you visit a nearby medical facility for a comprehensive evaluation to fully address your concerns.
Wishing you good health and all the best! Taipei Hospital, Dr.
Hsu Chen-Rong.

Reply Date: 2005/05/15

More Info

Understanding flat feet, or pes planus, is crucial for maintaining foot health, especially for individuals with a genetic predisposition, as you mentioned. Flat feet can lead to various complications if not addressed properly, particularly for someone with your height and weight. Let's break down your concerns and explore potential solutions.

1. Long-term Effects of Flat Feet Without Intervention: If you continue to walk long distances and stand for extended periods without any support or corrective measures, you may indeed experience adverse effects over time. Flat feet can lead to overpronation, where the foot rolls inward excessively during walking or running. This can cause strain on the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in your feet and legs, potentially leading to conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and even knee or hip pain due to altered biomechanics. Over time, this can also contribute to conditions like osteoarthritis in the joints due to uneven wear and tear.

2. Weight Distribution and Blisters: The observation that your weight is concentrated on the inner sides of your feet is common among individuals with flat feet. This uneven distribution can lead to excessive pressure on certain areas, resulting in blisters, particularly on the big toe. While it is possible to improve your walking mechanics through conscious effort and strengthening exercises, using arch supports or orthotic insoles can significantly alleviate discomfort and prevent blisters. These insoles help distribute weight more evenly across your foot, reducing pressure on the inner side.

3. Foot Width and Shoe Fitting: The width of your feet can be a challenge, especially if you find it difficult to find shoes that fit comfortably. While surgical options like bone reduction surgery exist, they are typically reserved for severe deformities and are not commonly recommended for flat feet alone. Instead, consider seeking out specialty shoe stores that cater to wider feet or brands that offer shoes in various widths. Custom orthotics can also help improve fit and comfort without the need for invasive procedures.
In addition to these points, it is essential to engage in exercises that strengthen the muscles of the foot and ankle. This can include toe curls, arch lifts, and balance exercises. Stretching the calf muscles and Achilles tendon can also help improve flexibility and reduce strain on the foot.

If you are experiencing significant pain or discomfort, consulting with a podiatrist or orthopedic specialist is advisable. They can provide a thorough assessment of your foot structure and recommend appropriate interventions, which may include custom orthotics, physical therapy, or, in severe cases, surgical options.

In summary, while flat feet can lead to various complications, proactive measures such as using supportive footwear, engaging in strengthening exercises, and consulting with healthcare professionals can help mitigate these risks and improve your overall foot health.

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