Flat Foot

When a patient lacks a visible arch in the foot, it correlates to a condition known (predictably) as “flat foot”. While all infants have flat feet, the arch begins evolving in childhood and continues to mature with adulthood. In some individuals, however, the arches do not develop (or they fail later in life), causing inhibited mobility and pain. Dr. Steven A. Bernstein at Progressive Spine & Orthopaedics can diagnose and treat flat feet, optimizing quality of life and well-being for patients in and beyond New Jersey and New York.

Why choose Dr. Bernstein?

Dr. Steven A. Bernstein is a highly skilled, board-certified foot and ankle surgeon who has an intuitive understanding of human anatomy and the unique mechanisms that support ease of movement. He is a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and the American Society of Podiatric Surgeons and is also a member of the American Podiatric Medical Association and the New Jersey Podiatric Medical Association. Dr. Bernstein has delivered outstanding results for over 30 years, specializing in the treatment of ankle and foot fractures. He is a champion of progressive and regenerative healing strategies such as Plasma Rich Protein and Bone Marrow Aspirate.

What are flat feet?

When one or both feet lack arches, the patient will be diagnosed with a condition known as “flat foot.” This means that when they stand up, the pads of their feet have direct contact with the ground. Arches usually start growing from the age of six, but in two out of ten children, the feet will remain flat as they enter adulthood. For other adults whose arches developed naturally, flat feet may occur later in life. While flat feet do not present problems for everyone, there are those patients who require an intervention due to discomfort and loss of mobility.

What are the different types of flat feet?

There are several different types of flat feet, so it is essential to receive the proper diagnosis from an experienced, insightful surgeon such as Dr. Bernstein. Varieties of the condition include the following:

Flexible flat feet

This is the most common version of flat feet. While the arches may be visible while sitting or lying down, the moment you stand up they disappear. This condition emerges in late childhood or adolescence and can gradually get worse with age. It may cause the arch tendons and ligaments to swell or tear.

Rigid flat feet

Rigid flat feet occur when there is no arch present, either sitting down or standing up. It can cause pain and discomfort for the patient which worsens with the aging process. Flexing the feet up and down or side to side can be strenuous and difficult. The rigidness can be present in one or both feet.

Adult-acquired flat feet (fallen arch)

In this case, the arches may have functioned normally for most of the patient’s life but have now suddenly collapsed or fallen. This can cause the foot to veer outward, resulting in discomfort and pain. Common causes of adult-acquired flat feet include inflammation or a tear in the posterior tibial tendon of the leg.

Vertical talus

Vertical talus is a birth defect that inhibits the proper formation of foot arches due to a misplaced talus bone in the ankle. The bottom of the foot may have a convex shape that is reminiscent of the bottom of a rocking chair. For this reason, vertical talus is sometimes referred to as “rocker-bottom” foot.

What causes flat feet?

Flat feet are commonly genetic, although they may form later in life due to inflammation or tendon tears. Certain issues pose a higher risk of flat feet, including the following:

Injuries to the Achilles tendon
Broken bones
Obesity
Pregnancy
Rheumatoid arthritis
Hypertension
Cerebral palsy
Down syndrome

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How To Fix Flat Foot With Dr. Bernstein

How are flat feet treated?

As mentioned, some patients with flat feet will function perfectly fine in life without undergoing any type of intervention. However, for those who do experience pain or impaired mobility, treatments can range from physical therapy and medications to surgery. Patients may also be fitted with supportive devices such as braces or custom-made footwear.

Surgery to correct flat feet usually centers around repairing damaged tendons and joints. The earlier in life the patient undergoes the needed procedure, the better the outcome will be. Surgical flat foot correction may include:

Bone fusion in the foot or ankle
Osteotomy (bone reshaping to improve alignment)
Tibial tendon repair
Synovectomy (to address the tendon sheath)
Tendon transfer

Get started with your private consultation today!

If you are concerned by problems related to flat feet and are encountering discomfort or mobility problems related to your condition, contact Dr. Steven A. Bernstein at Progressive Spine & Orthopaedics today to set up a private and informative consultation. Dr. Bernstein and his caring team of orthopedic experts are standing by to assist you in reclaiming your well-being, comfort, and peace of mind.