The definition of adult flatfoot is self-explanatory. It can be summed up in its name—flat feet that occur in adulthood. However, while the name is decipherable, the methods for treating its painful symptoms may be a bit more unclear to you. Let the experts at Austin Foot and Ankle Specialists explain.
For Flat Feet, Pain Is Main
Adult flatfoot happens when your arch collapses, causing your feet to point outward. In fact, if you have someone take a look at your feet from behind you, they’ll likely be able to see all your toes from the back. Besides these visible signs, pain is the main symptom. The inside of your foot will feel it, and your ankle will too. The outside part of the ankle may hurt as well, because the collapse of the arch puts more pressure on the outside of your foot.
With this condition, high-impact activities are going to be very painful. You might not even be able to walk or stand up without discomfort. People with arthritis may notice that they aren’t able to wear their shoes, due to bumps on the top and inside of their foot. Diabetics need to watch out, because they might not feel pain at all. Instead, a swollen lump will form on the bottom of their arch.
Causes of Arch Collapse
Obesity, occupation, shoes, and your activity level could be some factors creating your problem. Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD), damage to the tendon that holds up your arch, is the most common cause. The tendon becomes inflamed and torn with repeated overuse, which means it no longer has the strength to support the arch. Over time, the arch collapses. People who play high-impact sports like soccer, basketball, or tennis can also develop this condition.
Sometimes the condition is hereditary, since a foot type prone to collapse can be passed down from one generation to the next. Conditions like diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis also associate with this, and may increase your chances of developing a poor foot structure. A ligament injury in the foot is another incident that can break the support needed to hold up your arch.
You Have to Treat to Beat
Treatment for flatfoot is plentiful, whether it’s conservative therapy or surgery. Before we can give you our best suggestions, we need to study the severity of your deformity. Information like when the problem progressed, the range of symptoms you’ve experienced, and the amount of pain you’ve endured is helpful regarding a diagnosis. An X-ray and foot analysis, coupled with a thorough exam of your standing and walking posture, will give us a clear picture of the specific care you need for your recovery.
Night splints, strapping, and the RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) method are good treatments for less severe patients. We may consider prescribing an anti-inflammatory medication to relieve pain and swelling. For more severe cases, a cast or a walking boot may be a better option. After a four- to six-week period, you can use custom orthotics or a brace for a month to taper your therapy. We’ll continue to follow up with you to prevent any flare-ups.
Are You Looking for a Flatfoot Specialist in Austin, TX?
If you are looking for flatfoot care, you should reach out to an experienced podiatrist. Austin Foot and Ankle Specialists can help. Our office provides a wide variety of advanced, effective treatment options for all kinds of painful conditions. Ready to schedule an appointment? Contact us online or call our Austin office at 512.328.8900.