About this topic
A flat foot is one that does not have a normal arch in the bottom part when you stand up. This is a common problem. Babies are born without an arch in the foot. By the time they are 2 to 3 years of age, they begin to develop an arch. Most people have normal arches by the time they become adults. Some people never form an arch in their foot. This may happen in one or both feet. ‚
Flat feet may happen because the tendons in your feet are loose. Tendons are strong bands of tissue that connect muscle to bone. There are two types of flat feet, flexible and rigid. Most of the time, flat feet are flexible. They do not cause any pain or other problems. With rigid flat feet, you may have problems in the ankles and knees. ‚
What care is needed at home?
- Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits.
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. Your doctor may send you to a specialist called an orthopedic doctor. Your doctor might also send you for physical therapy to help learn exercises and lessen pain. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with pain and swelling
- Prevent infection if you had surgery
Will physical activity be limited?
Your physical activity should not be limited unless you have pain. ‚
Will there be any other care needed?
Many people with flat feet also have a tight Achilles tendon or heel cord. Treating this problem may help. ‚
What problems could happen?
- Foot looks deformed
- Less ankle motion
- Ongoing pain
- Trouble walking
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
Most of the time, you cannot prevent this problem. These things may help lessen the chances of getting flat feet: ‚
- Wear comfortable shoes with a good arch support.
- Stay active and exercise. Be sure to keep your calf muscles flexible with stretching.
When do I need to call the doctor?
- Pain gets worse
- Trouble walking
- Health problem is not better or you are feeling worse
Teach Back: Helping You Understand
The Teach Back Method helps you understand the information we are giving you. The idea is simple. After talking with the staff, tell them in your own words what you were just told. This helps to make sure the staff has covered each thing clearly. It also helps to explain things that may have been a bit confusing. Before going home, make sure you are able to do these: ‚
- I can tell you about my condition.
- I can tell you what may help ease my pain.
- I can tell you what I will do if I have more pain or problems walking.
Where can I learn more?
American Academy of Pediatrics ‚
http://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/orthopedic/Pages/Flat-Feet-Fallen-Arches.aspx ‚
FamilyDoctor.org ‚
http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions/flat-feet.printerview.all.html ‚
NHS Choices ‚
http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/flatfeet/pages/introduction.aspx ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
Copyright
Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚