1st of a new 4 part review of the painful condition - Flat Feet - this week - What causes flat feet?
Posted by Eamonn Brady on
Flat Feet (Part 1)
During childhood, usually between the ages of 3 and 10, we develop a space on the inner side of our feet where the bottom of the foot is off the ground. These are referred to as the "arches" of our foot. The height of this arch varies. People with a low arch or who have no arch are classified as having flat feet.
Causes
Flat feet can run in families, and both feet are usually affected. A form of the problem is when the foot tends to roll inwards too much while standing or walking. This can be due to weak ligaments in the heel joint or at the base of the big toe which can cause excessive rolling in of the foot. Regular rolling in of the middle of the foot causes the heel and the front of the foot to point outwards more than usual.
While over-pronated feet usually develop in childhood, there are times when flat feet develop when the person gets older. Flat feet may develop due to a ruptured tendon, tear of the spring ligament, arthritis, nerve damage due to diabetes, or injury which leads to stiffness and distortion of the joints. Conditions of the nervous system or muscles including cerebral palsy, spina bifida or muscular dystrophy can cause flat feet as they can cause muscle weakness or lack of movement in the muscles.
Other contributing factors can include shoes which limit toe movement such as high heels (walking barefoot may have a protective effect). Tight Achilles tendon or calf muscles can also make a person more prone to flat feet. Obesity also can contribute to flat feet.
Chiropodist
A chiropodist can diagnose, advise on, and treat flat feet. Whelehan’s Pearse St has chiropodist James Pedley in store in our private treatment room every Tuesday and Thursday. Book online, in store or by phoning 04493 34591.
1st Contact Physio
1st Contact Physio with Chartered Physiotherapist, Kevin D’Arcy. MISCP. Located in the private consultation suite, upstairs at Whelehans Pharmacy, 38 Pearse St, Mullingar
1st Contact Physio services include sports injuries, spinal injuries, back pain management, neck, and shoulder pain, post operative physiotherapy, sports rehabilitation, orthotics (including for flat feet), and sports massage. Physiotherapy is €60 for initial session and €50 for follow up sessions, Kevin offers reduced physiotherapy rates for Medical Card holders, children, and sports clubs. Book your appointment on the Whelehans website or Call Kevin on 0873813473 or Email physio@whelehans.ie
To be continued…next week