Flatfeet – Symptoms and Causes
Overview
Flatfeet occurs when the arches inside the feet flatten under pressure. When standing, people with this condition have feet that point outward with the entire sole touching the floor.
The condition can be present from childhood if arches never properly develop, or it may appear later in life due to injury or age-related wear and tear.
For most people, flatfeet causes no problems or pain. Treatment isn’t necessary for painless flatfeet. However, if you experience discomfort or find that the condition limits your activities, seeking evaluation from a foot specialist is recommended.
This common foot condition, sometimes called flatfoot, affects many people across different age groups. The decision to treat depends entirely on whether symptoms are present and how they impact daily activities.
Symptoms
Most people with flat feet don’t feel any discomfort. However, some may feel pain in their feet, mainly in the heel or arch. This pain often gets worse during physical activities.
You might also notice swelling on the inside part of your ankle.
When to Get Medical Help
If you or your child has foot pain that limits daily activities, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider. They can examine your feet and suggest treatments to help reduce discomfort and improve function.
Causes
Flatfeet occurs when the arches on the inside of the feet flatten out. This condition is common in babies and young children, as foot arches typically develop during childhood. For some people, arches never form at all.
Children often have what doctors call flexible flatfoot. With this type, the arch shows up when the child sits or stands on tiptoes but disappears when standing normally. Most children grow out of this without problems.
People born with normal arches can develop flatfeet later in life. Several factors can lead to this:
- Sudden injury to the foot
- Gradual wear and tear over many years
- Weakening or tearing of the tendon along the ankle’s inside edge that supports the arch
As flatfeet becomes more severe, some people may develop arthritis in their feet. The condition can range from painless to quite uncomfortable depending on its cause and severity.
Risk Factors
Several factors may increase a person’s chance of developing flatfeet. Understanding these risks can help with prevention and early treatment.
Weight Issues
People who are overweight or obese put extra pressure on their feet. This added stress can weaken the tendons and structures that support the arch, leading to flat feet.
Physical Trauma
Injuries to the foot or ankle, such as fractures or torn tendons, may damage the structures that form and maintain the arch. These injuries can cause the arch to collapse either immediately or over time.
Health Conditions
Certain medical conditions affect foot structure:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (causes joint inflammation)
- Diabetes (can affect nerve function in feet)
Age-Related Changes
As people get older, natural wear and tear affects foot tendons and ligaments. The posterior tibial tendon, which supports the arch, often weakens with age, potentially leading to flatfeet.
This condition can develop at any age, though some people are born with flat feet while others develop them later in life. Regular foot checkups can help identify early signs of arch problems before they cause pain or mobility issues.
