FLAT FEET
/ PES PLANUS
By: Corinne Gehegan, DPM
 Pes planus or pes plano valgus are medical terms for flat feet and the
associated weight bearing position of the foot. The main supportive
structure of the foot is the arch. Pes planus may be diagnosed if the
arch is flattened or absent. Pes planus may be noted early in life and
in this case it is considered to be congenital pes planus. The condition
may also be acquired due to inheritance of poor foot mechanics,
trauma/over-use, conditions involving impaired collagen synthesis
(Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Marfan’s syndrome), rheumatoid arthritis,
neurologic disorders and neuromuscular disorders, pregnancy, and
obesity. An individual may have flexible flat feet or rigid flat feet.
The majority of the cases are flexible. This means that the arch can be
recreated by manual manipulation or by standing on one’s toes. Rigid
flat feet may be the result of a congenital condition, trauma, and late
stages of neuroarthropathy among other reasons.
The significance of pes planus has been debated throughout the years
amongst practitioners of various specialties. It is true that many
individuals with flat feet do not experience any functional disadvantage
or any symptoms; however, some people with pes planus are prone to
foot/ankle/knee/hip/back pain, foot
fatigue/cramping, and other associated deformities such as bunions and
hammer toes. Bone and joint instability are compromised as well as the
function of certain muscles and tendons. This is especially true if the
feet overpronate (pes plano valgus). Supination and pronation are both
necessary rotational movements that the foot undergoes during the gait
(walking) cycle; however, some individuals may pronate too much or too
little. The level of activity, the type of activities, and the degree of
standing and walking daily seem to correlate to the development of
symptoms associated with flat feet.
Diagnosis is made based on the history and clinical exam. Sometimes
x-rays and other diagnostic tests such as MRI are performed to diagnose
secondary conditions related to pes planus. Non-surgical treatment
involves strapping and arch supports or orthotics (inserts for shoes)
which may be over the counter or custom made. Your doctor will determine
if soft, semi-flexible, or rigid inserts are appropriate. He or she can
also determine if custom orthotics are indicated. Orthotics are designed
to support and align the feet. Not everyone is a candidate for orthotics,
particularly those whose feet fall into the rigid category. Orthotics
function similarly to eyeglasses or hearing aids. They will not cure the
condition, but they can correct or manage the condition while they are
being used. Supportive shoes and sneakers are also recommended.
Surgery is recommended only as a last resort when all possible
non-surgical options have been exhausted. Surgery may involve
reinforcing tendons, correcting the alignment of bones and joints, or a
combination of both.
Article written by Dr. Corinne Gehegan
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