Each "standard" foot has a arch arch. However, they do not represent the majority of arch shapes. In fact, some feet are hollow and almost half are flat. Flat valgus feet are characterized by low or non-existent arches. This pathology can have several causes, and can lead to very disabling symptoms. Flat feet can be relieved and even corrected by wearing orthopedic insoles. SmartFeet offers a wide range of orthopedic insoles to relieve the pain associated with flat feet. We also offer insoles for many other conditions, such as heel spurs.
Causes and symptoms of flatfoot
Flatfoot is easy to recognize. The whole footprint is visible when the foot is placed on the ground, and the heel may deviate from the trajectory of the Achilles tendon. This can even lead to the toes turning outwards.
Flatfoot pathology can have many causes. causesThat's why it's so widespread. Among the many causes, the main ones are as follows:
- Genetics. The condition can be inherited if the parent has naturally weak arches.
- The weak arches. It may simply be that a person has a rather weak arch, resulting in a sagging vault.
- The posterior tibial tendon. If this is damaged or ruptured, the arch will collapse in most cases. It may also undergo a natural dysfunction with age.
- Arthritis: As with rheumatoid arthritis, this pathology, linked to the old age can lead to flat feet.
It's also possible to develop flat feet following an injury to the foot or ankle. It is important to note that people who are diabetic, obese and/or pregnant are more likely to contract this condition. plantar disease.
What treatments are available to relieve and correct flat feet?
Most treatments are aimed at children under the age of eight. Beyond that age group, only insoles orthopedic inserts or surgery will be effective against this pathology.
Before the age of eight, the following treatments are available:
- Orthopedic insoles. These are a safe, universal and indispensable choice. Made of cork or foam, they are very useful for restoring dynamism to the arch of the foot.
- Exercises. Foot exercises are recommended up to a certain age. Whether it's walking on the tip or heel, or dancing, these exercises are no longer effective after the age of eight.
- Visit surgery. As a last resort, and only in rare cases, Judet's "Cavalier" operation is very restrictive. After the installation of a screw blocking an arch joint for six months, a cast is applied for three months.
After eight years, treatment consists of wearing orthopedic inserts. These are the only means of relieving the pain, apart from the sessions of physiotherapywhich are only effective in certain cases. If the pain persists and immobilization does nothing, surgery can be considered.
What are the possible complications of flat feet?
If you don't treat your flat feet, complications can arise, particularly in the following areas disabling complications may arise. As well as radiating to the foot, the pain will extend to the ankles, knees and even hips.
A flat foot can lead to most of the major plantar pathologies. These include hallux valgus plantar fasciitis or Morton's neuroma.
L'hallux valgus is the result of a foot deformity caused by a flat foot. It can also be accompanied by the formation of hammertoes.
The tendons of a flat foot are weakened by poor posture. This is where plantar fasciitis develops, Morton's neuroma or tendonitis. These complications can cause instability, leading to sprains. That's why it's so important not to neglect flat feet.
How to choose the right insoles for flat feet?
When choosing an orthopedic insole, it's important to carefully analyze the various factors involved: function, material and size.
To relieve flat feet, it's vital not to choose a material with too much cushioning. In fact, the arch must be supported firm support. It is therefore preferable to avoid frost and, if possible, moss, in order to give priority to the cork.
SmartFeetthe French leader in the sale of orthopedic insoles, offers you orthopedic insoles specialized in the treatment of flat feet. With SmartFeet, there's no need to choose the material or function - we'll take care of it for you.
Even if it's not difficult to know which size of insole to choose (identical to your shoe size), you need to make sure that your shoes have a perfect fit. larger size otherwise your foot won't fit in them.
