What Everyone Should Know About Flat Foot Deformity

Flat foot deformity is progressive as the posterior tibial tendon wears down the flattening of the arch of the foot occurs. The tendons and muscles around the ankle and foot balance the action of the posterior tibial tendon. In normal situations, the ankle and foot are balanced to normal motion but when the posterior tibial tendon fails the other tendons and muscles are overpowering. It contributes to progressive flat foot deformity. Several foot problems lead to a flat foot deformity in Houston, which is a fallen arch with the foot pointed outward. No matter the cause,flat feet treatment in Houston with braces, orthotics, and even physical therapy, from a flat foot Houston doctor, can be of help.

Symptoms of flat foot deformity

Depending on the cause of the flatfoot the symptoms may vary, but some of them include

Ø Pain that gets worse as you engage in an activity. You might experience difficulty in standing and walking for long periods. For people engaging in high-impact and intense activities such as running, it can be very difficult to engage in them.

Ø The pain lies inside the foot and ankle along the posterior tibial tendon.

Ø Swelling may be noticed inside the ankle.

Ø After the collapse of the foot, the heel bone puts pressure on the outside ankle bone. It will cause pain outside of the ankle which is the same pain caused by arthritis in the heel.

Ø Patients with arthritis or an old injury might feel pain and bony bumps inside and on top of the foot. The bony bumps or spurs may be so large that they pinch the nerves resulting in tingling or numbness to the foot and into the toes.

Ø Patients with diabetes will notice swelling or a large bump on top of the foot. Since their sensation is affected they might not experience pain which could lead to skin problems and ulcers on the foot.

Why does flat foot deformity develop?

Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction

Damage to the tendon is the most common cause of flat foot deformity. The posterior tibial tendon starts at the calf and down inside the lower leg to the bones inside the foot. This tendon supports the foot and holds up the arch when you walk. When the tendon is torn or inflamed, the arch collapses. It is more likely in people over 40 years, women being more susceptible than men. Other factors include hypertension, obesity, and diabetes. High impact sports also cause tears on the tendon from repetitive use.

Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is the cause of painful flat feet. It attacks the ligaments and cartilage that supports the foot causing the foot to change shape and flattens.

Injury

An injury to the ligaments that support the foot causes the joints to fall out. When they are torn the foot becomes painful and flat. This mainly happens in the middle of the foot but also occurs at the back of the foot. Dislocations, injuries, and fractures can lead to flatfoot deformityHouston.

Diabetic collapse

People with diabetes have nerve problems that limit normal feeling in the feet and the arch collapses. This arch collapse is severe because the patient has no sensation of pain that can lead to a fracture.