Are your feet screaming for help after every step? If you're experiencing the discomfort of fallen arches, finding the right footwear and support can be a game-changer. Don't resign yourself to a life of foot pain; there are solutions waiting to be discovered.
The quest for comfortable and supportive footwear begins with understanding fallen arches, also known as flat feet or pes planus. This condition, affecting up to 30% of the population, occurs when the arch of the foot collapses, leading to pain and discomfort in the feet, ankles, and even the knees and back. Choosing the right shoes and arch supports is crucial for managing the symptoms and preventing further complications.
| Topic | Fallen Arches (Pes Planus) |
|---|---|
| Definition | A condition where the arch of the foot collapses, causing the entire sole to come into complete or near-complete contact with the ground. |
| Prevalence | Affects up to 30% of the general population. |
| Symptoms | Foot pain, ankle pain, knee pain, back pain, stiffness in the feet, and altered gait. |
| Causes | Genetics, injury, obesity, aging, pregnancy, and conditions like posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD). |
| Diagnosis | Physical examination, observation of gait, and imaging tests like X-rays or MRI in some cases. |
| Treatment | Arch supports, orthotics, supportive shoes, physical therapy, and in rare cases, surgery. |
| Shoe Features to Look For | Good arch support, wide toe box, firm heel counter, cushioning, and stability. |
| Complications if Untreated | Plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoe, shin splints, knee pain, hip pain, and back pain. |
| Related Conditions | Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD), plantar fasciitis. |
| Reference | American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons |
