Flatfoot Condition

WHAT IS FLEXIBLE FLATFOOT DEFORMITY?

Flexible flatfoot, medically known as flexible pes planus is a foot deformity where the individual lacks or has decreased foot arch when they stand on their feet and arches recreate when not standing hence the term “Flexible”. It is most often noted in childhood and continues into adulthood. It is a complex deformity with varying degree of deformity and symptoms. In general, patient’s pain and symptoms correlate to the amount of deformity. The more the deformity, the more patients’ symptoms and disability will be. If left untreated, flatfoot condition can lead to arthritis and limited function.

CAUSES OF FLEXIBLE FLATFOOT DEFORMITY?

It is congenital (patient inherits the deformity from mom and/or dad)

FINDINGS:

Partial or complete collapse of the arch of the foot
Tight Achilles tendon (Ankle Equinus)
Patient may have bunions and/ or hammertoes as a result of a flatfoot
Pain in the ball of the foot as the result of tight Achilles tendon
Front part of the foot / toes may be pointing outward
The heel tilts toward the outside and the ankle appears to turn in (Calcaneal valgus)

SYMPTOMS:

Pain in the arch, ankle region
Pain along the shin bone (shin splint)
General aching or fatigue in the foot or leg
Ankle, knee, hip or lower back

IMAGING:

X-ray is helpful in assessing the severing of deformity and to rule out arthritis

CONSERVATIVE TREATMENTS OF SYMPTOMATIC FLEXIBLE FLATFOOT DEFORMITY?

Activity modifications. Avoid prolonged walking and standing to give your arches a rest.
Weight loss. If you are overweight, try to lose weight. Putting too much weight on your arches will aggravate your symptoms.
Orthotic devices. Use orthotic devices in your shoes to support to the arches.
Immobilization. In severe cases, it may be necessary to immobilize the foot to decrease pain and symptoms.
Medications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, help reduce pain and inflammation.
Physical therapy. Ultrasound therapy or other physical therapy modalities may be used to provide temporary relief.
Shoe modifications. Wearing shoes that support the arches is important for anyone who has flatfoot.

WHEN IS SURGERY NECESSARY?

In some patients whose pain is not adequately relieved by other treatments, surgery may be considered. A variety of surgical techniques is available to correct flexible flatfoot and one or a combination of procedures may be required to relieve the symptoms and improve foot function.

We encourage you to consult with a specialist for a complete assessment of your condition.

Dr. Jones Hormozi at Valley Foot & Ankle Center (VFAC) utilizes state-of-the-art technology, minimally invasive procedures, and advanced techniques to prevent and treat all conditions of the foot and ankle. This allows most patients to walk immediately after most procedures, and they are able to rapidly return to high levels of functioning with excellent outcomes.

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Dr. Jones Hormozi is a Board Certified Podiatrist in Los Angeles. Dr. Hormozi is known for treating sports injuries in patients of all ages. He has treated and operated on professional athletes, semi professional athletes, college athletes and high school athletes. Dr. Hormozi is also Clinical Assistant Professor of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery at Western University of Health Sciences.

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