Acquired Adult Flatfoot

One of the primary stabilizing muscles of the foot is the Tibialis Posterior. When this muscle is working properly; it locks the foot, supports the arch and assists you in walking.
 
Sometimes the tendon of this muscle becomes damaged and then the arch will progressively collapse, giving you a “flat foot”. Often the progression of this problem is painless and can go unnoticed until the foot is quite deformed and walking is difficult. This condition is more common in women over the age of 50, but can occur in anyone. 

Being overweight, having Diabetes, and a history of previous surgery or Cortisone injections may also contribute to this condition. Once the condition develops it is common to have pain in various other parts of the foot, have difficulty with walking and standing on your toes. A specialized type of custom foot orthotic, worn in your shoe, can be very helpful in this condition and limit further arch collapse. 
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Please call us if you have questions about this or any other painful foot conditions limiting your mobility.