'Pes Planus' is the official name for flat feet.

 

What is Flatfoot?

 

Flatfoot is often a complex disorder, with diverse symptoms and varying degrees of deformity and disability.

 

There are several types of flatfoot, all which have one characteristic in common: partial or total collapse (loss) of the arch.

 

Other characteristics shared by most types of flatfoot include:

 

• Toe drift, in which toes (usually 3rd, 4th and/or 5th toes) are visible from behind.

 

• The heel tilts toward the outside and the ankle appears to turn in.

 

• A tight Achilles tendon, may cause early heel lift during gait cycle and over time problems may worsen.

 

• Bunions, hammer toe, and Morton's Neuroma may develop as a result of a flatfoot.

 

Flexible Flatfoot

 

Flexible flatfoot is one of the most common types of flatfoot. It begins in childhood or adolescence and continues into adulthood. It usually occurs in both feet and progresses in severity throughout the adult years.

 

As the deformity worsens, the soft tissues (tendons and ligaments) of the arch may stretch or tear and can become inflamed.

 

The term flexible means that while the foot is flat when standing (weight-bearing), the arch returns when not standing.

 

Important Note: A flat foot is normal in infants and toddlers, because the foot’s arch hasn’t yet developed.

 

Treatment of Acquired Flatfoot

 

Riverton Chiropractic recommends early treatment due to a progressive nature of flat foot.

 

Treatment early enough for these symptoms may resolve and progression of your condition impeded.

 

If untreated, with leaving a flat foot; this could lead to painful arthritis in the foot and ankle, and increasing limitations on walking, running, or other activities.

 

Often, treatment can begin which may include Orthotics.

 

Orthotics give your arch the support it needs, which may result in providing you with a custom orthotic that fits into the shoe.

 

What Are Orthotics?

 

Orthotics are foot supports designed to address loss of natural arch system and improve biomechanics.

 

Orthotics address foot pain, Plantar Fasciitis, tendonitis, shin splints, uneven leg length and misaligned hips.

 

Orthotics, depending on their use, come from different materials, such as:

• Plastic and carbon fibre orthotics to control motion of the joints;

• as opposed to soft, compressible silicone or foam,

for gentle arch support, arthritis sufferers or those in pain.

 

Note: Support shoes and orthotics do not repair the inadequate ligament support from creating damage to:

• the ankle,

• knee,

• hip and low back regions which can lead to wear and tear of these joints, and

• pain and muscle tension.

 

Problems Associated With Flat Feet

 

Some common problems associated with flat feet include:

• foot, leg, knee and hip pain

• lower back pain due to postural misalignments arising from loss of natural arch

• reduced athletic performance

• reduced mobility and levels of comfort

 

Riverton Chiropractic offers postural check ups to see if your feet are 'flat'.

 

If you're looking for orthotics in Perth, the team at Riverton Chiropractic may be able to help.

 

We look for loss of arch support and other postural issues. Riverton Chiropractic has prearranged laser cut custom orthotics, according to your measurements.

 

The orthotics customised are to ensure the best comfort whilst improving function.