Flat Feet (Pes Planus): Treatment and Symptoms

Introduction

Flat feet, medically known as Pes Planus, is a condition where the arches of the feet are either partially or completely collapsed, causing the entire sole to touch the ground when standing. While flat feet are common and often painless, they can sometimes lead to discomfort, fatigue, or alignment issues in the knees, hips, or back. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and options for flat feet treatment in Delhi/Gurgaon can help individuals manage this condition effectively and maintain an active, pain-free lifestyle.

Causes of Flat Feet (Pes Planus)

Flat feet can develop for various reasons, including:

• Genetic predisposition – Often runs in families
   
• Weak arches – Arches that flatten under pressure
   
• Injury or trauma to the foot or ankle
   
• Obesity – Extra weight can put pressure on the arches
   
• Arthritis or diabetes – Affects joints and tissues in the foot
   
• Tendon dysfunction – Especially the posterior tibial tendon
   
• Age-related degeneration – Arches can fall over time
   
• Neuromuscular diseases – Conditions like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy

Flat feet are also common in infants and toddlers, as arches may not fully develop until around 6 years of age.

Symptoms of Flat Feet (Pes Planus)

Not everyone with flat feet experiences symptoms, but when symptoms do occur, they may include:

• Pain in the arch, heel, or ankle
   
• Foot fatigue after prolonged standing or walking
   
• Swelling along the inside of the ankle
   
• Difficulty standing on tiptoes
   
• Uneven shoe wear

Pain that radiates to the knees, hips, or lower back due to misalignment

When to Seek Medical Advice

You should consider seeing a healthcare provider if:

• You experience persistent foot or ankle pain
   
• One foot appears significantly flatter than the other
   
• There's difficulty walking or standing for long periods
   
• You notice swelling, stiffness, or deformity

Pain spreads to other parts of the lower body (e.g., knees or hips)

Which Doctor to Consult?

For flat feet treatment, the appropriate specialists include:

• Orthopedic specialists – For structural or joint-related issues
   
• Podiatrists – Experts in foot and ankle care
   
• Physiotherapists – For rehabilitation and strengthening flat feet exercises
   
• Rheumatologists – If the cause is related to systemic conditions like arthritis

Recommended Exercises for Flat Feet (Pes Planus)

Targeted flat feet exercises can help strengthen the muscles that support the arch and reduce discomfort. Here are a few beneficial ones:

• Toe curls: Pick up a towel with your toes
   
• Heel raises: Strengthen calf and arch muscles
   
• Arch lifts: Focus on raising the mid-foot while keeping heel and toes grounded
   
• Calf stretches: Maintain flexibility in supporting muscles
   
• Rolling a ball under the foot: For fascia massage and arch activation

Always consult a physiotherapist for a tailored exercise program based on your severity and needs.

How to Differentiate Normal Development from a Medical Concern

In children, flat feet are usually normal until about age 6, as the arch is still developing. However, medical concern arises if:

• The child has foot pain or fatigue
   
• One foot is flatter than the other
   
• Walking appears clumsy or awkward
   
• Arches suddenly collapse in adults (may signal tendon dysfunction)

Monitoring and regular check-ups can help distinguish natural growth from a developing condition

Treatment Options

Flat feet treatment depends on the severity and symptoms. Options include:

• Supportive footwear with arch support
   
• Custom orthotics to reduce strain and improve alignment
   
• Physiotherapy for strengthening and flexibility
   
• Weight management to reduce pressure on the feet
   
• Pain relief medications like NSAIDs

Surgical correction (rare and only in severe, painful, or deforming cases)

Prevention Tips

While not all cases of flat feet can be prevented, you can reduce the risk of complications by:

• Wearing supportive footwear

• Avoiding prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Performing flat feet exercises regularly

• Avoiding high-impact sports if experiencing foot pain

How Swasthya Saarthi Provides Treatment for Flat Feet (Pes Planus)

At Swasthya Saarthi, we offer a holistic, patient-centric approach to managing flat feet. Our comprehensive services include:

• Detailed gait and foot assessments using advanced diagnostic tools
   
• Consultations with orthopedic and podiatry experts
   
• Custom-made orthotics and footwear recommendations
   
• Personalized physiotherapy plans featuring effective flat feet exercises
   
• Lifestyle and ergonomic guidance to prevent further complications
   
• Progress tracking and ongoing support to ensure long-term relief

For those seeking flat feet treatment in Delhi/Gurgaon, Swasthya Saarthi combines local expertise with advanced care options to deliver highly effective outcomes. Additionally, we provide specialized Sports injury treatment to help active individuals and athletes recover safely and return to peak performance.

With a combination of modern techniques and personalized care, Swasthya Saarthi ensures every patient gets back on their feet comfortably and confidently.

Conclusion

Flat feet may seem like a minor condition, but when left unaddressed, they can lead to discomfort and mobility issues. With proper diagnosis, supportive care, and the right flat feet treatment and flat feet exercises, most individuals can lead an active, pain-free life. Whether you're concerned about your own feet or your child’s development, early intervention and expert care can make all the difference especially with trusted options like flat feet treatment in Delhi/Gurgaon available at Swasthya Saarthi.

FAQs

Q1. Are flat feet permanent?

In adults, flat feet are usually permanent, but in children, arches often develop with age.

Q2. Can flat feet be corrected without surgery?

Yes, most cases can be managed with orthotics, flat feet exercises, and supportive footwear.

Q3. Is walking barefoot good or bad for flat feet?

It depends walking barefoot on soft surfaces may help strengthen the foot, but hard surfaces can worsen symptoms.

Q4. Can flat feet cause back pain?

Yes, poor foot alignment can affect posture and lead to knee, hip, or back pain.

Q5. Should I avoid sports if I have flat feet?

Not necessarily many people with flat feet are active in sports. Proper footwear and stretching are key.