Flat Feet
Flat Feet is a common foot and ankle condition that can prevent one from leading a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle by restricting their movements. Our therapists are trained in all kinds of foot conditions, and we are operational across three clinics in Etobicoke, Mississauga and ClarksonGO.
What is Flat Feet?
Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, is a common condition where the arch of the foot collapses, causing the entire sole of the foot to come into contact with the ground. This can cause the foot to appear flat when standing or walking.This increases stress force on the joint and ligament and leads to pain and discomfort.
Flat feet can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, injury, or weakening of the muscles and tendons in the foot. It can also be associated with certain medical conditions, such as arthritis or nerve disorders.
Some people with flat feet may experience no symptoms or problems, while others may experience pain, swelling, or stiffness in the foot, ankle, or lower leg. They may also have difficulty standing for long periods of time, walking long distances, or participating in certain activities, such as running or jumping.
Treatment for flat feet depends on the severity of the condition and the symptoms experienced. Mild cases may not require treatment, while more severe cases may require supportive shoes, custom orthotics, physiotherapy, or in rare cases, surgery. A physiotherapist or chiropractor can help determine the most appropriate treatment plan for an individual with flat feet.
Finding it difficult to identify the best physiotherapy or chiropractor near you? Go through this checklist.
What are the symptoms of Flat Feet?
The symptoms of flat feet can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some people with flat feet may experience no symptoms or problems, while others may experience one or more of the following:
- Foot pain, especially in the arch, heel, or ankle.
- Swelling along the inside of the ankle.
- Stiffness or decreased flexibility in the foot or ankle.
- Difficulty standing for long periods of time or walking long distances.
- Tired or achy feet, especially after physical activity.
- Overpronation, which is when the foot rolls inward excessively while walking or running.
- Difficulty fitting into shoes or needing larger shoe sizes due to the width of the foot.
In some cases, flat feet can lead to other foot problems, such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, or hammertoes. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or have concerns about your foot structure, it is important to seek professional help from a physiotherapist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
What can cause Flat Feet?
Flat feet can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Genetics: Some people may be born with flat feet or may inherit a tendency to develop flat feet.
- Weak Arches: The arches of the feet are supported by muscles, tendons, and ligaments. If these structures are weak or damaged, the arches may collapse and result in flat feet.
- Injury: An injury to the foot or ankle, such as a sprain or fracture, can damage the structures that support the arches of the foot and lead to flat feet.
- Aging: As people age, the muscles and tendons in the feet may weaken and lose their ability to support the arches.
- Obesity: Being overweight or obese can put extra stress on the feet and lead to flat feet.
- Pregnancy: The hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy can cause the ligaments in the feet to relax, leading to flat feet.
- Certain Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and nerve disorders, can affect the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the feet and lead to flat feet.
How can physiotherapy and chiropractic care help in Flat Feet?
Physiotherapy and chiropractic care are helpful in managing flat feet by providing treatments that aim to reduce pain, improve flexibility and strength, and prevent further progression of the condition.
Physiotherapists include NeuroMuscular therapeutic graded exercises to improve foot and ankle strength, flexibility, and range of motion. These exercises may include stretches, strengthening exercises, and balance exercises. The physiotherapist also uses modalities such as heat or cold therapy, laser therapy, or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation.
Chiropractic care includes adjustments to the foot and ankle joints to improve joint mobility and reduce pain. The chiropractor also uses soft tissue techniques such as massage or trigger point therapy to help relax tight muscles and improve blood flow to the affected area.
In addition to physiotherapy and chiropractic care, supportive footwear or custom orthotics may be recommended to help support the arches of the feet and reduce pain and discomfort.
Physiotherapy is the first line of defense in treating foot injuries. The recovery process is speed up and clients can relive their normal lives after their mobilization and ankle and foot movement functions are restored.
At Alleviate Physiotherapy, we follow a multidisciplinary approach that includes education, manual therapy, modalities, and exercises to help all our clients reach their mobility goals and lead a pain free life.
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