Signs and Symptoms of Acquired Adult Flat Foot

Flat foot in adults could be caused by a variety factors. Just like flat foot commonly seen in children, the foot deformity results in a fallen arch and the foot pointing outward. Flat foot can be the symptom of an underlying medical condition but it can be treated with a variety of options which include the use of orthotics and braces.

For those who fail to find relief from the discomfort of flat feet, surgery may be recommended by a podiatrist to provide long-term or permanent relief from pain or to correct the structural deformity.

Signs and symptoms that come with flat foot can be the direct result of the underlying cause. Below are symptoms that may indicate acquired adult flat foot:

Patients with flat foot may experience pain when standing for long periods of time. This can be caused by the weight of the body pressing down on the feet.

Pain that intensifies when performing physical activities. This is especially felt when the person participates in high intensity activities such as running or repeated jumping.

Diabetics with neuroma or those who have lost sensation in their feet may not notice the development of bony bumps in their feet. This may cause skin breakages or ulcers. Which can lead to an infection, a serious complication in diabetics with a weak immune response.

Acquired adult flat foot can be caused an old injury that results in arthritis may experience pain from bony bumps on the top and inside of the foot.  Some bone bumps become so large that it affects surrounding nerves. Numbness and tingling in the area are experienced as the bony outgrowth pinch the nerves. It also makes wearing shoes uncomfortable.

A flat foot or fallen arch interferes with normal feet structure. When the middle of the foot collapses it shifts weight bearing pressure to the outside ankle bone. Arthritis in the heel can also cause pain on the outside of the ankle.

Swelling on the inside of the ankle can cause pain to channel through the posterior tibial tendon.

Contact James C. Ricketti, DPM and let us address all your foot and ankle needs. Our board-certified podiatrist will tailor treatments based on your individual needs and with our state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options, we’ll help you get back on your feet in no time! Call our office today at 609-587-1674 to make an appointment at our conveniently located Hamilton, NJ office.