Flat feet are a condition in which the arch of the foot loses its natural arch or has none at all. This can cause problems in many areas from walking to posture. Flat feet can limit an individual's mobility and cause difficulties in daily life activities. Romatem Hospital aims to alleviate pain, increase mobility and improve the quality of life of individuals with flat foot rehabilitation.

What is a Flat Bottom?

Flat feet are when the arch of the foot loses its natural height or flattens completely. The arch of the foot helps to stabilize body weight and provide shock absorption during walking. However, flat feet lead to an inability to fulfill these functions.

Types of Flat Bottom:

1. Flexible Flatfoot: The arch disappears when the foot bears weight but reappears at rest. It is commonly observed in childhood.
2. Rigid Flat Feet: The arch of the foot remains flat even at rest and is often associated with pain and restricted movement.
3. Acquired Flatfoot: A condition that develops over time, typically due to trauma, overuse, or aging.

Causes and Symptoms of Flat Feet

Causes of Flat Feet:

• Genetic Factors: The likelihood of occurrence is higher in individuals with a family history.
• Connective Tissue Diseases: Loss of elasticity in connective tissue can lead to flat feet.
• Excessive Weight: Being overweight can place additional stress on the feet, potentially leading to the flattening of the arch.
• Traumas Injuries to the ankle or foot can lead to the development of flat feet.
• Muscle or Nerve Diseases: Conditions such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy can affect the formation of the arch of the foot.

Symptoms of Flat Feet:

• Foot, knee, hip and lower back pain.
• Rapid fatigue during walking.
• Feeling unstable when standing.
• Excessive wear on the inside of the shoes.
• Ankle pain and swelling.

What happens if flat feet are not treated?

Untreated flat feet can lead to more serious health problems over time:

1. Posture Disorders: Flat feet can cause incorrect posture by disrupting body balance.
2. Knee and Hip Problems: Imbalance during walking and standing can place excessive strain on the knee and hip joints.
3. Lower Back Pain: Flat feet can affect the natural alignment of the spine, leading to lower back pain.
4. Foot Deformities: Over time, foot deformities (e.g., bunions) may develop.

Flat Feet Rehabilitation Methods

It aims to improve individuals' foot health and overall mobility by offering a multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of flat feet. The main methods used in treatment are as follows:

1. Orthopedic Supports (Insoles and Footwear):

• Specially designed orthopedic insoles support the arch of the foot and balance weight distribution.
• Guidance is provided in the selection of shoes in daily life.

2. Physical Therapy:

• Muscle Strengthening Exercises: Special exercise programs are applied to strengthen the foot and leg muscles.
• Flexibility Exercises: Applied to increase the flexibility of ankle and foot muscles.
• Balance Exercises: Aims to correctly distribute body weight and ensure postural balance.

3. Manual Therapy:

• Relaxation is provided with special techniques applied manually to the foot and ankle areas.
• It reduces pain and increases the elasticity of tissues.

4. Postural Education:

• The pressure on the feet and spine is reduced by teaching correct posture and walking habits.
• Ergonomic posture recommendations are provided for activities of daily living.

5. Exercise and Activity Planning:

• Individualized exercise plans are prepared to strengthen the arch of the foot and improve posture.
• Activities such as Pilates and yoga are recommended to contribute to overall body balance.

Advantages of Flat Feet Rehabilitation

Applied flatfoot rehabilitation offers many advantages to improve the quality of life of individuals and maintain foot health:

1. Pain Reduction: Foot, knee, hip, and lower back pains are effectively alleviated.
2. Functional Improvement: Walking and posture problems are corrected through methods that support the foot arch.
3. Posture Correction: Body balance is achieved by gaining correct posture habits.
4. Ease in Daily Life: Individuals can perform their daily activities more comfortably.
5. Personalized Approach: Treatment plans are customized according to the needs of each individual.