Pes Planus (Flat Feet)

Pes Planus (Flat Feet) in Mississauga

Pes Planus, commonly known as flat feet, is a condition where the arches of the feet are lower than normal or absent. Instead of a raised arch, the entire sole of the foot may come into contact with the ground, resulting in a flat appearance when standing. While some individuals may not experience significant issues, others can suffer from pain, discomfort, or functional limitations due to flat feet. Physiotherapy can be highly effective in addressing the challenges of flat feet and helping individuals manage symptoms.

Symptoms of Flat Feet

Flat feet can present with a variety of symptoms, some of which can affect mobility and overall comfort. Common symptoms include:

• Pain in the Feet or Arches: Flat feet often cause discomfort in the foot’s arch or the entire foot, especially after prolonged standing or walking.
• Foot Fatigue: Individuals with flat feet may experience tired feet more quickly, especially after activities like walking or standing for long periods.
• Swollen Feet: Swelling in the feet and ankles can occur due to the altered alignment and increased stress on the feet.
• Pain in the Knees, Hips, or Lower Back: Since flat feet can affect the overall alignment of the lower body, people with this condition may experience pain in the knees, hips, or lower back due to compensatory movements or postural changes.
• Difficulty Standing for Long Periods: Those with flat feet may find it uncomfortable to stand for long periods, as the foot’s lack of arch support can increase pressure on the soles.

Causes of Flat Feet

Flat feet can occur for a variety of reasons. Some people are born with the condition, while others may develop it over time due to factors such as:

• Genetics: A family history of flat feet may increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
• Injury or Trauma: Damage to the tendons or ligaments in the feet, such as a sprain or fracture, can contribute to flat feet.
• Age: As individuals age, the tendons and ligaments in the feet may weaken, leading to a collapse of the arch.
• Obesity: Excess weight can place additional stress on the feet, contributing to the flattening of the arches over time.
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect the ligaments in the feet, which may lead to the development of flat feet.
• Health Conditions: Certain conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes, can also contribute to the development of flat feet.

How Physiotherapy Can Help with Flat Feet

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in managing the discomfort and functional limitations associated with flat feet. The goal of physiotherapy is to improve foot function, reduce pain, and prevent further complications. Treatment can include:

• Strengthening Exercises: Physiotherapists may recommend exercises to strengthen the muscles in the feet, ankles, and lower legs. Strengthening these muscles can help provide better support for the arches and improve overall foot function.
• Stretching Exercises: Tight muscles and tendons can contribute to the pain associated with flat feet. Stretching exercises can help reduce muscle tension and increase flexibility in the foot and ankle.
• Foot and Ankle Mobilization: Manual therapy techniques, such as joint mobilization, can be used by physiotherapists to improve the movement and alignment of the foot and ankle joints.
• Gait Training: If flat feet affect the way a person walks, physiotherapists can provide gait training to improve movement patterns and reduce unnecessary strain on the feet and lower limbs.
• Postural Education: Since flat feet can affect overall posture and alignment, physiotherapists will educate patients on proper posture to alleviate discomfort in the feet, knees, hips, and lower back.
• Orthotics and Footwear Advice: Although not a physiotherapy treatment per se, physiotherapists can recommend custom orthotics or advise on suitable footwear to provide additional arch support and improve foot function.
• Pain Management Techniques: Physiotherapists can use various techniques, such as taping, to reduce pain and provide additional support for the foot during daily activities.

Benefits of Physiotherapy for Pes Planus

The primary aim of physiotherapy for flat feet is to improve overall function and reduce pain. Physiotherapy can offer a number of benefits, including:

• Reduced Pain: Through targeted exercises and manual therapy, physiotherapy can help alleviate the discomfort associated with flat feet.
• Increased Strength and Flexibility: Physiotherapy helps strengthen the muscles that support the foot and ankle, while stretching exercises increase flexibility, both of which can improve overall foot health.
• Improved Posture and Alignment: Physiotherapists provide guidance on proper posture to reduce strain on the body, especially the knees, hips, and lower back.
• Better Foot Function: By improving the strength, flexibility, and alignment of the feet, physiotherapy enhances overall foot function, making it easier to perform daily activities and remain active.

How We Can Help

If you are dealing with the discomfort or pain of flat feet, our clinic is here to help. Our experienced physiotherapists will assess your condition and create a treatment plan to address your specific needs. Through a combination of strengthening exercises, manual therapy, and postural education, we aim to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance your quality of life.

Contact us today to begin your journey toward better foot health. Let us help you improve your foot function and alleviate the discomfort caused by flat feet.