FLATFOOT TREATMENT IN MATHURA

Dr Swapnil Verman is the most renowned orthopaedic surgeon in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. He is known for treating various foot ailments such as flatfoot.

Flatfoot Treatment in Mathura: An Overview

Flatfoot, also known as pes planus, affects the arch of the foot. It happens when one of both feet’s arches collapses, resulting in the foot’s entire sole making contact with the ground. This condition can be characterised as either rigid flatfoot, where the arch remains flat regardless of weight-bearing, or flexible flatfoot, where the arch is evident when not bearing any weight.

What Are Some of the Causes of Flatfoot?

Genetics: Family history has an impact on how flatfoot develops. If one or both parents have flat feet, a child is more likely to develop them as well.
Weak Muscles and Ligaments: If the ligaments and muscles supporting the foot arches are weak, the arches may collapse, leading to a flatfoot.
Abnormal Foot Development: Some people have structural flaws in their feet from birth, which can cause flatfoot development.
Age: People may get flat feet as they age because the tendons and ligaments supporting their foot arches may weaken.
Injury: Foot trauma can change the alignment of the foot and cause flatfeet, such as fractures or injuries to the tendons and ligaments.
Obesity: Carrying extra weight places additional strain on the feet and may erode supporting tissues.
Pregnancy: Hormone changes and weight gain may temporarily modify the anatomy of the foot, which may result in flatfoot. Usually, this goes away following delivery.

Symptoms of Flatfoot:

Pain or discomfort in the arch or heel area.
Tiredness or achiness in the feet, especially after prolonged standing or walking.
Difficulty fitting into shoes, as they may not provide adequate support.
Reduced flexibility of the foot’s arch.
Overpronation (excessive inward rolling) of the foot while walking.

Treatment Options for Flatfoot:

How flatfoot is treated depends on the severity of the condition, whether symptoms are present, and the underlying causes. Possible flatfoot treatments include the following:

Conservative Measures:
- Orthotic Inserts: Custom-made or over-the-counter orthotic inserts can support the arch and improve foot function.
- Supportive Footwear: Wearing footwear with the right amount of cushioning and arch support can reduce pain and encourage foot alignment.
- Physical Therapy: Specific stretches and exercises targeted to build up the muscles can help support the foot arches.
- Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy body weight lowers the stress placed on the feet, which can help avoid or minimise the symptoms of flatfoot.
Surgery: In cases of severe flatfoot deformity or when conservative therapies are ineffective, surgery is typically recommended. To enhance the structure and functionality of the foot, surgery may be used to repair tendons, straighten bones, or fuse joints.
Custom Orthotics: Designed specifically for a person’s foot structure, custom orthotic devices can offer individualised support and relieve pain.

Can flatfoot be prevented?

Genetics can play a crucial role in the development of flatfeet, but maintaining a healthy weight, wearing supportive footwear and avoiding strenuous activities can help reduce the risk.

Are custom orthotics necessary for the treatment of flatfoot?

Custom orthotics are made to address particular foot problems, such as flatfoot. While over-the- counter insoles might offer some support, custom orthotics are made specifically for your foot and can produce greater benefits.

In cases of severe flatfoot, is surgery the only option?

Surgery is normally only used when other treatments have failed to relieve the condition or it is severe. Your orthopaedic surgeon will go through all of your options and choose the best course of action depending on your individual needs.