Flat Feet vs. Normal Feet: Frequently Asked Questions

Flat Feet Vs Normal Feet – What are they?

Flat feet refer to feet with collapsed, underdeveloped or undeveloped arches. Normal feet, on the other hand, refer to feet with developed arches.

What are Arches?

Arches are the curved, arch-like sections located from around the mid-feet to the heels. They are visible from the inner side of the feet.

Each foot has three arches and these are:

1.       The Medial Longitudinal Arch - This is the main arch and is the one seen along the inner foot from the balls of the feet to the heels. It is this arch that largely determines whether a foot is flat or normal.

2.       Lateral Longitudinal Arch - This arch is found on the outer side of the foot and is less visible than the medial longitudinal arch.

3.       Transverse Arch - Unlike the previous two, this arch runs from one side to the other around the midfoot area.

Why are Arches Important?

The arch (the three working together) provides the following:

·         Shock absorption – The spring-like design of the arch acts like a shock absorber, taking in the shock stress that comes with every step taken and dissipating it. This reduces stress on the ankle, knees, hips, and lower back.

·         Weight Distribution - The feet carry the weight of the entire body so the arch ensures that this weight is evenly spread out. This ensures that no one part bears most of the weight, and thereby resulting in imbalance and increased strain on the affected part.

·         Balance and Stability - The spring-like design of the arch acts like the suspension of a car, ensuring that the body remains balanced even on an uneven surface. The arch also helps you stay balanced on your feet for extended periods. When you walk or run, it is the arch that ensures the smooth transfer of weight from one foot to the other.

·         Movement and Gait - Efficient movement requires some propelling force. This force is provided by the arches, ensuring that movement can be carried out with less energy. This also affects your gait as it keeps it efficient and balanced.

How Do I Know If I Have Flat Feet?

Knowing if you have flat feet is quite simple. You can do the wet foot test right there at home.

Just get a bowl of water that’s large enough for you to place your feet in. Get a piece of brown paper or any surface on which a watermark will be visible.

Place your feet in the bowl of water, remove it and place it on the paper. You should have a clear imprint of the sole of your feet.

Using the image above, you can determine whether or not you have flat feet.

Should I be Worried if I have Flat Feet?

Not necessarily. In fact, many people who have flat feet do not have any issues whatsoever. That said, having flat feet means that you are predisposed to pain and fatigue in the foot and pain or discomfort in the knees, hips, and back.

All of these may be caused by overpronation, which is a situation where the feet roll inward because of the absence of proper arch support.

What Causes Flat Feet?

Flat feet can be caused by a number of factors including:

·         Genetics – It can be inherited from parents

·         Congenital Factors – Some children are born with certain conditions that automatically result in flat feet

·         Obesity – Increased weight on the feet can lead to the collapse of the arch. This can be temporary or permanent.

·         Aging – The natural process of aging can result in the weakening of the arch leading to its eventual collapse

·         Health Conditions – Conditions such as diabetes, and arthritis can also lead to flat feet

·         Injury – Injury or trauma that alters the foot’s structure can result in the collapse of the arch

Can Flat Feet be Fixed?

Flat feet can be managed or treated using different intervention methods. For most individuals, orthotic inserts are sufficient. These inserts recreate the arch, providing the support and other functions that the arch should be providing.

In other cases, exercise and physical therapy can be used to strengthen relevant muscles to get the arch working. In rare cases, surgery may be required to fix the issue. For most cases, it never gets to this point.

Can I be an Athlete with Flat Feet?

Yes you can! In fact, Usain Bolt, who dominated the world of sprint for almost 10 years (2008 to 2017) has flat feet. With proper management (supportive footwear, orthotics, and physical therapy), you can excel in sports and any high-impact activity.

Do I Need to See a Doctor if I Have Flat Feet?

You do not necessarily have to see a doctor if you have flat feet. Even if you need custom orthotics, there are companies that offer custom orthotics that you can order and get from the comfort of your home like Stride Soles.

You should however see a doctor if:

·         You continue to experience pain in the foot, ankle, and knees after using orthotics

·         Walking becomes difficult and you cannot stand for long periods

·         There's swelling and stiffness that doesn't just go away.

A doctor will be in a good position to do a full examination to determine what the issue is and proffer a lasting solution.

How Can I Effectively Manage Flat Feet?

Managing flat feet is not difficult and this is thanks to improved technology. Some simple but effective ways include:

·         The Use of Orthotics – These inserts are designed to provide the support that the arch was supposed to provide. In addition to this, they also offer other supportive functions that help restore the feet’s biomechanics to optimal operation. However, it is important that you choose orthotic inserts that are perfect for you.

·         Physical Therapy and Exercise – Working with qualified physical therapists, you may be able to strengthen relevant muscles that will help the arch perform better.

·         Supportive Footwear – Footwear that offers good arch support, and has firm midsoles will be ideal. Avoid flip-flops and other such footwear that completely lack the support required for flat feet.

Conclusion

Flat feet is a condition that does not have to negatively impact your life. There’s really nothing that a person with normal feet can do that a person with flat feet cannot do. All you need to do is ensure you have the right support and you’ll be fine.

Remember that many cases of flat feet do not experience any symptoms. That said, taking precautions by using appropriate orthotic inserts will be a smart move. At least, you will be ensuring that you never experience any of the symptoms.

With the answers we’ve given in this article, you should now be better informed about flat feet and how to effectively manage it.