Flat Feet (Pes Planus, Fallen Arches, Pes Planovalgus, Excessive Pronation, Talipes Calcaneal Valgus)

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You are here : 3-RX.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Flat Feet
Category : Health Centers > Hands and Feet

Flat Feet

Alternate Names : Pes Planus, Fallen Arches, Pes Planovalgus, Excessive Pronation, Talipes Calcaneal Valgus

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring

Flat feet is a condition where more of the foot surface is in contact with the floor than normal.

What is going on in the body?

A truly flat foot with no arch is rare. Most people with flat feet have flexible arches. When the foot is not bearing weight, it has an arch. As soon as weight is placed on the foot, the arch collapses.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

People with flat feet can develop chronic fatigue. This can lead to problems with activities of daily living and work. People may avoid exercise if it makes their feet hurt. Lack of exercise can increase the risks of heart disease.

Flat feet often cause a person's lower joints to be positioned oddly. That chronic repetitive stress can lead to osteoarthritis, which is chronic joint pain, or stress fractures of the bones of the foot.

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		Flat Feet: Symptoms & Signs

Author: Bill O'Halloran, DPM
Reviewer: Gail Hendrickson, RN, BS
Date Reviewed: 05/18/01

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