5 Red Flags for Flat Feet
5 Red Flags of FLAT FEET
Our feet do an amazing job being the foundation of our body. They support our weight and allow us to move. However, because of the complexity of our feet, any changes in the arches can cause imbalances, effecting the entire body. If untreated, arch problems can lead to pain in the feet, knees, hip, lower back and even in the shoulders.
HOW MANY ARCHES DO WE HAVE? 1, 2 or 3?
Our feet should have 3 arches.
- one on the inside, called the inner arch
- one of the outside called the outer arch
- one across your balls of the feet called the transverse arch Walking on the sand should leave a forefoot print and a heel print. There should be no pressure on the sand in the middle of the foot. Half our body weight being on the forefoot and half on the heel, with none in the middle.
The 3 arches create what is known as the Plantar Vault. We need the arches to help us with the following:
- Balance
- Propelling us forward
- Absorbs heel-strike shock
- Adapts to stresses with running and walking
Here are the 5 Red Flags of Flat Feet
- Foot Flare
With pronation we see a flaring of the feet when walking. The toes will be pointed outwards. The problem develops over time and the evertor muscles become dominant over the inverter muscles.
2. Rolling Knees Inwards
Normally the middle of the knee cap should sit over the 2nd toe. With flat feet the middle of the knee cap will sit closer to the inside of the foot.
3. Flat Feet
A drop in the arches, most noticeable in the inner arch, however all 3 arches will collapse. Over time a bunion may develop on the big toe and skin callous will develop under the second toe.
4. Bend in the Achilles Tendon
Over time the achilles tendon, when looking at the foot from behind, will have a bend towards the midline. The achilles tendon should be straight.
5. Uneven Shoe Wear
The outside of the heel will tend to wear more than the rest of the heel.
Diagnosis includes 3D Digital Foot Leveller Scan
At Errol Street Chiropractic we confirm our observations with a 3D Foot Leveller scan. The weighted scan will show how the body’s weight is distributed and how the arches are working. If the scan confirms our examination findings then we recommend a pair of custom made orthotics to build up the 3 arches so the foot is sitting in a neutral position. We then recommend exercises and stretches to help with the rehabilitation process.
If you or a family member may have flat feet, please give us a call on 9329 1118 and we can organise a time for a 3D digital Foot Leveller scan.
Flat feet can cause Plantar Fasciitis – click here to watch the video.
Click here for exercises to help plantar fasciitis.
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