Things that are flat: ironing boards, paper, feet, mouse pads…wait, feet? That’s right. Your eyes are not deceiving you. Flat feet are a common condition that we see at Next Step Foot and Ankle Clinic. When the tendons of the feet do not pull together properly, and there is little or no arch, we call these flat feet, or talk about fallen or collapsed arches.
Do you know why you have a collapsed arch? It could be due to inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis of the feet and ankles, which attacks not only the cartilage but also the joints. It could be an injury to the ligaments that has thrown the joints out of alignment, or damage to the posterior tibial tendon, which is attached to the calf muscle and travels down the foot. Another cause is diabetic collapse, where the disease has caused deterioration in the bones. Many individuals with fallen arches will experience a plethora of aches and pains, including—but not limited to—back and leg pain, and difficulty standing on the toes.
Once your arches have fallen, you also become susceptible to further injury. These injuries include:
Tarsal Tunnel syndrome which causes a painful burning sensation radiating into the arch and heel, sometimes the toes.
Plantar Fasciitis, a gradual onset of pain under the heel that causes tenderness that is worst in the morning.
Medical Calcaneal Nerve Entrapment causes a burning sensation on the inside of the ankle bone.
Shin Splints which result in pain over the lower half of the shin bone. It is most painful at the beginning of exercise.
Achilles Tendonitis describes a range of pain along the back of the heel.
Check to see if you have flat feet by analyzing your footprint. If you can see the complete outline of your foot, you likely have fallen arches. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms or problems listed above, visit Dr. Darren Silvester at Next Step Foot and Ankle Clinic here in Pleasanton, TX. We’ll find a treatment for your pain. Call our office today by dialing (830) 569-3338 or request your appointment online.
