Flatfoot: Causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention

Pes Planus, or Flatfoot, is a foot deformity characterized by the lowering of its arch. Flatfoot can occur in various age groups, both in children and adults. In the following part of the article, we will discuss different types of flatfoot and compare congenital and acquired flatfoot. We distinguish several types, such as congenital flatfoot, acquired flatfoot, longitudinal flatfoot, and transverse flatfoot. Each of these types has its specific characteristics, which we will discuss below.

Congenital vs. Acquired Flatfoot

Congenital flatfoot is a foot deformity that is present from birth. It is a rare occurrence that may be caused by improper bone development of the foot during the prenatal period. Acquired flatfoot, on the other hand, is a deformity that develops due to various factors such as overweight, weakened foot muscles, or prolonged stress on the feet. Acquired flatfoot is much more common than congenital flatfoot.

Longitudinal vs. Transverse Flatfoot: Differences and Similarities

Longitudinal flatfoot is the lowering of the arch of the foot along its length, leading to a flattening of the foot. It is the most common type of flatfoot. In the case of transverse flatfoot, the arch of the foot is lowered across its width, causing the foot to become wider. Transverse flatfoot is less common than longitudinal flatfoot.

The similarity between longitudinal and transverse flatfoot is that both deformities lead to a lowering of the foot's arch. The difference lies in the direction of this lowering – longitudinal flatfoot affects the length of the foot, while transverse flatfoot affects its width.

Diagnosing Flatfoot

The diagnosis process for flatfoot involves several stages, allowing for an accurate diagnosis of the condition. Depending on the patient’s age, diagnostic methods may vary slightly. In the following part of the article, we will discuss how to diagnose flatfoot in adults and children.

How to Diagnose Flatfoot in Adults?

Diagnosis in adults begins with an analysis of the symptoms reported by the patient. Typical symptoms include foot pain, fatigue, a feeling of heaviness, and difficulty walking. In the case of adult flatfoot, attention should be paid to potential changes in the shape of the foot, such as a flattened arch or widening of the foot.

Flatfoot in Children: What to Look For?

When diagnosing flatfoot in children, it is important to observe their walking style and any balance issues. Flatfoot in children often presents as physiological flatfoot, which usually resolves on its own as the child grows and develops. However, if the symptoms persist, it is advisable to consult a doctor or physiotherapist.

Flatfoot Diagnosis: Physiotherapy Examination and X-ray of the Foot

To accurately diagnose flatfoot, both in adults and children, it is recommended to undergo an examination with a physiotherapist. The specialist will assess the shape of the foot, the walking pattern, and any potential balance problems. In some cases, additional tests, such as an X-ray of the foot, may be necessary to evaluate the foot's bone structure and the degree of arch lowering.

Diagnosis is crucial for choosing the appropriate treatment and therapy. Depending on the type of condition and the patient's age, the doctor or physiotherapist will create an individual therapy plan, which may include exercises, massage, orthotic devices, or even surgical treatment.

Causes and Effects of Flatfoot

The causes and effects of flatfoot are closely related. It is important to understand what can lead to this condition and what problems may arise from it. In the following part of the article, we will discuss the causes of flatfoot in adults and children, as well as the effects, such as foot pain.

Causes of Flatfoot in Adults and Children

The causes of flatfoot in adults can vary. Often, these are genetic factors, overweight, prolonged stress on the feet, improper footwear, or injuries. In the case of children, factors such as posture defects, weakened foot muscles, improper foot development, or rapid growth should be considered.

Effects of Flatfoot: Foot Pain and Other Problems

The effects can be different, but the most common problem is foot pain. Pain in flatfoot can be caused by excessive stress on the joints, tendons, and muscles of the foot. Other effects of flatfoot include fatigue, a feeling of heaviness, balance problems, or difficulty walking. In the long term, flatfoot can lead to foot deformities, knee, hip, or spine pain.

Flatfoot and Knock-Knees: The Connection Between These Conditions

Longitudinal flatfoot and knock-knees are often associated conditions. People with longitudinal flatfoot may also have flat-knock knees, meaning their feet are both flattened and turned outward. Knock-knees can result from improper foot load caused by flatfoot. In such cases, treatment should include therapy for flatfoot as well as correction of knock-knees.

Treatment and Therapy for Flatfoot

The treatment and therapy for flatfoot are crucial for improving the quality of life for individuals affected by this condition. Depending on the patient's age and the severity of the flatfoot, different treatment methods are used. In the following part of the article, we will discuss the methods for treating flatfoot in adults, exercises for flatfoot in children and adults, and when surgical treatment for flatfoot is necessary.

Treatment Methods for Adults

The treatment methods for flatfoot in adults primarily include conservative therapy aimed at reducing pain and improving foot function. Some of the most popular treatment methods for flatfoot in adults include:

Orthotics and Orthopedic Insoles – Individually tailored to the patient’s foot, these aim to support the foot's arch and evenly distribute pressure on the foot.
Physiotherapy – Exercises that strengthen the foot muscles and improve flexibility.
Massage – Can help reduce muscle tension and improve circulation in the foot.
Wearing Proper Footwear – The footwear should be comfortable, stable, and properly fitted to the foot.

Exercise Therapy for Children and Adults

Exercises for flatfoot are an important part of therapy for both children and adults. Regular exercise can help strengthen the foot muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. Examples of exercises for flatfoot in children and adults include:

Picking Up Objects with the Toes – This exercise involves grabbing small objects, such as blocks or balls, with the toes.
Walking on Toes and Heels – This exercise strengthens the foot muscles and improves flexibility.
Sliding a Towel on the Floor with the Toes – This exercise engages the foot muscles and improves coordination.
Stretching the Achilles Tendon – This exercise involves leaning against a wall and gently pushing one leg backward until we feel tension in the Achilles tendon.

Surgical treatment of flat feet: when is it necessary?

Surgical treatment of flat feet is only used in cases where conservative therapy does not produce the expected results or when flat feet are very advanced and cause significant problems in the patient’s functioning. The decision about the need for surgery is made by an orthopedic doctor after a thorough examination of the patient and assessment of the degree of progression of the condition. The surgery may involve correction of the foot deformity, stabilization of the joints, or reconstruction of the foot arch.

In summary, treatment and therapy for flat feet are crucial for improving the quality of life of individuals affected by this condition. Depending on the patient’s age and the degree of flat feet, various treatment methods are used, such as exercises for flat feet, orthotics, or surgical treatment. It is important that treatment is tailored to the individual needs of the patient and conducted under the supervision of a specialist.

How to prevent flat feet in children?

Preventing flat feet in children is extremely important, as early interventions can prevent the development of the condition in the future. Here are some tips on how to care for children’s feet to avoid flat feet:

Use appropriate footwear – children’s shoes should be comfortable, stable, and well-fitted to the foot.
Introduce exercises to strengthen the foot muscles and improve its flexibility.
Avoid prolonged sitting in one position, such as while watching TV or using the computer.
Regularly monitor the development of the child’s feet by a pediatrician or orthopedist.

Proper development of a child’s feet: how to care for the feet of the youngest?

The proper development of a child’s feet is key to avoiding problems related to flat feet. Here are a few tips on how to care for a child’s feet and support the development of children’s feet:

Use appropriate footwear – children’s shoes should be comfortable, stable, and well-fitted to the foot. Avoid shoes with hard soles, which can hinder the proper development of the foot.
Introduce exercises to strengthen the child’s foot muscles and improve flexibility. Exercises such as walking on toes or picking up small objects with the toes can be a great way to develop foot muscles.
Allow the child to walk barefoot when possible – walking barefoot on soft surfaces, such as grass or sand, can support proper foot development.
Regularly monitor the child’s foot development by a pediatrician or orthopedist. Early detection of flat feet-related issues can facilitate the introduction of appropriate therapy.

Minimalist shoes as support and a solution for flat feet

As mentioned, footwear is very important in the fight against flat feet. What if we told you that there is ideal footwear for both adults and children that helps reduce the effects or (in the case of a less advanced condition) even completely eliminate flat feet?

One of the myths surrounding minimalist footwear is that the lack of arch support is harmful to people with flat feet. This is completely untrue because such shoes PROMOTE the proper movement of the foot and actually force it. This means that, over time (with proper recommendations and foot training), we can restore better shape in the foot and reduce the deformation.

In the case of a child, where the foot is still developing, it is especially important to pay attention to footwear. Tight, poorly fitted, or poor-quality shoes—these all affect the development of the foot. Special minimalist shoes force the foot to move properly from the very beginning while protecting it, ensuring that the foot is strong and properly positioned.

For children, we recommend footwear for all seasons that protects and provides freedom—find it in the children’s section.

Adults will find men’s and women’s shoes in various sizes for different occasions and seasons