Pes planus, or flat feet, occurs when the arches of the feet collapse or do not develop properly. This results in the sole touching the ground. Many individuals with flat feet do not usually experience problems. However, some individuals develop discomfort or pain in the feet, ankles, knees, or lower back. And if you are bothered by your feet, a visit to a podiatry center can help you get your feet assessed and the problem addressed. Understanding the causes of flat foot is essential for prevention, early detection, and proper treatment. Here are the common causes of flat foot, from genetic reasons to injury. 

Common Causes of Flat Foot from Genetic Reasons to Injury

Genetics and Hereditary Factors

Genetics is one of the most common causes of flat feet. Many individuals inherit their foot structure from their parents. If one or both parents have flat feet, their children are likely to have or develop flat feet.

In hereditary flat feet, the arch of the foot either never forms in childhood or gradually collapses over time. Some people naturally have flexible tendons and ligaments. This makes the arches of the feet less stable. This structure can make the feet flatten when standing or walking.

Young children may look flatfooted because the arch has not yet fully developed. But it does not necessarily mean they will grow up with flat feet. Most of the time, the arch forms naturally as the child grows. However, some individuals may have low arches or no arches at all throughout their lives.

Weak or Dysfunctional Tendons

One common cause of flat feet is posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD). The posterior tibial tendon plays an important role in supporting the arch of the foot. It helps maintain stability while walking by connecting the calf muscle to the bones on the inside of the foot. However, once the tendon becomes weak, stretched, or damaged, it will no longer be able to provide the arch of the foot with the support it needs. This can lead to arch collapse and flatfoot deformity. 

Aging, obesity, high-impact activities, and prolonged standing all increase the risk of tendon dysfunction. The foot may roll inward as the tendon weakens. This can lead to additional strain on the ankle and surrounding structures.

Injury and Trauma

Flat feet can also result from foot and ankle injuries or trauma. Trauma usually comes in the form of fractures, ligament tears, or tendon injuries. These may affect the structures that support the arch, and when they are damaged and do not heal properly, the foot may lose its natural shape.

Sports injuries, accidents, and severe ankle sprains can also weaken the supportive tissues. Even individuals with normal arches may develop flat feet after an injury.

Repeated stress injuries can also cause the arch to gradually break down. This makes athletes and other people who frequently engage in high-impact activities more prone to this condition.

Arthritis and Joint Degeneration

In older adults, inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis can damage the foot structure. As the joint degenerates, the arch’s stability weakens, and the foot may gradually flatten, leading to pain and difficulty walking.

Another problem that can cause the arch to collapse is osteoarthritis, a condition that results from joint wear and tear.

Obesity and Excess Weight

Excess weight can put extra stress on the arches of the feet. This extra pressure can weaken the ligaments that support the arch.

Weight is something that can be controlled. A more intentional diet, coupled with exercise, will help prevent additional stress on the feet and reduce the risk of developing flat feet.

Aging and Natural Wear

It is natural for the tendons and ligaments of the feet to lose their elasticity as people age. When the structures that support the arch weaken, the arch may collapse.

Schedule an Evaluation Today

If you are experiencing foot pain or discomfort, call us today to schedule an evaluation. Whether you need flat foot treatment or something else, early assessment can get you the proper treatment as soon as possible.