Adult-acquired flatfoot can be a discouraging condition. Your feet used to be fine. Nicely shaped, supportive; great tools for any person on the go! Yet over time you started feeling pain and swelling along the inside of the foot. Nowadays, it might seem you can’t get through the day anymore without your feet hurting, especially if you stand for a long time or try to rise on your toes. Your arch is falling, and you don’t know why.
The most common cause of flat feet in adults centers on the posterior tibial tendon. This tendon attaches the bones on the inside of the foot to the calf muscle above, and it is essential for supporting the arch and keeping the foot stable while walking.
If the posterior tibial tendon begins to weaken or deteriorate over time, it may cause the arch to begin to flatten. As the arch lowers, it places more stress on the tendon, as well as other ligaments on the inside of the foot and ankle. The result is a cycle that grows progressively worse.
There are other potential causes of adult-acquired flatfoot including rheumatoid arthritis. Obesity can contribute to the progression of the condition, as it applies more force to the arch and its supporting tissues. Past injuries to the bones or tendons might also play a factor in suffering from flat feet.
Whatever the cause for adult-acquired flatfoot, it’s important to take steps to keep the condition from getting worse. Dr. Sanjay Patel and his friendly staff are ready to provide a full evaluation and determine the best measures to manage your flat feet. Schedule an appointment with Family Foot Care & Surgery by dialing one of our two offices: (203) 288-4055 for Hamden or (203) 876-7736 for Milford.
