Everyone’s feet are different
Can you determine your foot type from the image?
The shape of the arch changes with normal developmental growth.
It is demarked by 4 shaped bones: 3 cuneiforms and 1 cuboid. These bones have the appearance of a humpback bridge in cross section and arise in the midfoot. These bones act like square bricks which hold the arch together and keep it strong.
High arch feet are less adaptable. They tend to be more rigid than low arched feet.
What does having a dropped arch mean?
Regarding the dropped arch, there is confusion among this. Sadly, some authors have confused the terms, so that the transverse arch (the arch) may be mistaken for the metatarsal arch, which represents the ball of your foot.
No such thing as a dropped arch exists. Instead, the arch can change over time due to disease and injury.
A lack of ankle control, resulting in an inward rolling of the midfoot, can cause alterations in the arch’s shape and height. Your arch will therefore flatten. You’ll develop a Flat foot.
Facts about a Flat Foot.
- They usually don’t cause any issues.
- Your feet may become painful, stiff, weak, and numb.
- You may experience pain around your ankle or in the arch of your foot.
- It feels like you’re standing on a stone under the ball of your foot.
- Skin calluses may form where the second metatarsal head meets the ground.
- Wearing high heels can aggravate pain, especially if the shoe has a narrow toe.
- Some feet look flatter than others.
- On weight-bearing, the arch varies in length and width.
- It’s possible that you’ll sustain injuries to your feet or ankles.
What causes a Flat foot?
There is no obvious reasons for this. It could simply be due to the shape of your feet.
It’s possible that it’s inherited. It can run in families in some cases.
Do flat feet need correcting?
If you or your child have flat feet that are not causing any issues, you do not need to take any action.
The majority of children have flat feet until they are about 6 years of age. Usually, they develop an arch after this time.
In the United Kingdom, surgical management of the foot accounts for less than 5% of all foot surgery.
There is little justification for foot surgery in the absence of pain, rapid shoe wear deterioration, and progressive deformity.
If you experience foot pain due to having Flat feet
- You should consider consulting a professional.
- Wear wide comfortable shoes with a low heel.
- Orthoses do improve postural alignment, and they should be fitted in your shoes by a trained professional. People with low arches may find orthoses uncomfortable and a disappointment without guidance.
- You may benefit from foot stretches and exercises.
If you have flat feet and you are suffering from foot, knee or lower back pain an assessment with one of our Podiatrists may help. They can give you advice on footwear and orthotics, pain relief, mobilisation and exercise rehabilitation therapy and help you keep going and reduce your pain.Fill in the contact form to find out more:
