‹The template Manual is being considered for merging.›
 | This article is written like a manual or guide. (November 2020) |
| Flat feet | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Pes planus, fallen arches |
 | |
| Specialty | Orthopedics Podiatry |
Flat feet, also called pes planus or fallen arches, is a postural deformity in which the arches of the foot collapse, with the entire sole of the foot coming into complete or near-complete contact with the ground. Sometimes children are born with flat feet (congenital). There is a functional relationship between the structure of the arch of the foot and the biomechanics of the lower leg. The arch provides an elastic, springy connection between the forefoot and the hind foot so that a majority of the forces incurred during weight bearing on the foot can be dissipated before the force reaches the long bones of the leg and thigh.[1]
In pes planus, the head of the talus bone is displaced medially and distal from the navicular bone. As a result, the plantar calcaneonavicular ligament (spring ligament) and the tendon of the tibialis posterior muscle are stretched to the extent that the individual with pes planus loses the medial longitudinal arch (MLA). If the MLA is absent or nonfunctional in both the seated and standing positions, the individual has "sigma" flatfoot. If the MLA is present and functional while the individual is sitting or standing up on their toes, but this arch disappears when assuming a foot-flat stance, the individual has "supple" flatfoot. This latter condition is often treated with arch supports.[1]
- ^ a b Franco AH (May 1987). "Pes cavus and pes planus. Analyses and treatment". Physical Therapy. 67 (5): 688–694. CiteSeerX 10.1.1.1018.2649. doi:10.1093/ptj/67.5.688. PMID 3575426.