Flat feet may sound like merely a nuisance, unless you have them. In reality, arches that have collapsed can cause debilitating foot pain. Investigators now believe that corrective surgery sooner rather than later can help relieve this pain by stabilizing the foot, especially in active adults who put their feet through a lot of wear and tear. The early surgery approach can address the associated swelling in the foot and ankle before more radical procedures are necessary, according to Byron Hutchinson, DPM, who spoke at the annual scientific meeting of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons in New Orleans this week. Hutchinson is director of podiatric medical education at Franciscan Foot and Ankle Institute in Seattle.
Podiatrists are doctors trained in treating conditions of the foot.
The acquired flat feet of adulthood are different from the childhood condition, which is typically present at birth and is treated with orthotics, or corrective devices that are placed in shoes. Flat feet can develop among adults 40 years and older, particularly those who are overweight and sedentary. The collapse of the arch occurs after the Achilles tendon lengthens over time. This tendon is responsible for the arch's shape when a person lifts the heel when walking. If the Achilles tendon is swollen or overly stretched, it becomes less able to support the arch.