Fallen Arches Treatment

Fallen arches of the foot, also known as pes planus or flat foot, is a condition wherein the instep or arch is unable to stay in place and comes into contact with the ground. It can occur due to age or simply be due to an undeveloped arch during growth. Treatment is fairly conservative and focuses on alleviating pain, though serious cases may require more invasive procedures, such as surgery, to correct the problem.

Symptoms

• If you have fallen arches, your feet take on a characteristic flat appearance. This is typically accompanied by pain in the feet, lower legs and the inside of the ankles. The ankles may become swollen, and when standing, the shoes may appear uneven and the heel will not be in alignment with the rest of the body. If you experience these symptoms, consult with your doctor to determine the severity of your condition and to discuss the best possible treatment.

Treatment

• Minor cases of fallen arches do not require treatment. If you experience any pain, an over-the-counter pain killer, such as ibuprofen, may be helpful. You may also try staying off the feet as often as possible to help alleviate the discomfort. In some cases, your doctor may recommend orthotics, which are arch supports designed to fit the contours of your feet and provide additional support. These are often used in conjunction with a wedge, which is placed on the inside edge of the orthotic to take pressure off the posterior tibial tendon. If pain is exacerbated by your weight, low-impact exercises and losing weight can help reduce the load and alleviate the pain. In instances where the fallen arch is not correctable by conventional means or if the condition is severe, surgery to repair the damaged arch or fuse joints found in the foot is performed. For most cases, simple home and lifestyle methods are all that is necessary to treat the condition, and, as such, are not cause for concern.