Flat Feet - Fizio Centar In Locco

What Are Flat Feet and How Do They Develop?

Flat feet is a condition in which the natural arch of the foot is absent or reduced, causing the entire foot to come into contact with the ground without the normal arch height. This condition can be caused by various factors and significantly affects walking and foot function. To better understand how flat feet develop, it is important to consider the basic anatomy of the foot and the causes that can lead to this issue.

Brief Overview of Foot Anatomy

The foot is a complex structure composed of 26 bones, 33 joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Its anatomy allows it to function as a strong base that supports body weight and enables walking, running, and standing.

The arch of the foot is a key element in its function. The arch has three main parts: the medial (inner), lateral (outer), and transverse arches. The medial arch is the most important as it provides shock absorption during walking and running, while the lateral arch helps stabilize the foot. The transverse arch allows balance while bearing weight.
Ligaments and tendons support the foot’s structures, while muscles enable movement. Ideally, all these elements work together to achieve optimal foot positioning and proper weight distribution.

When the arch of the foot diminishes or disappears, it can lead to flat feet, meaning the entire foot contacts the ground, causing the loss of natural shock absorption and stability functions.

Causes and Risk Factors for Developing Flat Feet

Flat feet can develop for several reasons, most commonly due to genetic predisposition, poor habits, injuries, or specific health conditions. Here are some key risk factors:

Genetic Predisposition
Genetics plays a significant role in the development of flat feet. If your parents had this condition, you are more likely to develop flat feet as well. In such cases, the problem may be noticeable in childhood but can become more pronounced with age.

Weak Foot Muscles and Tendons
People with weak foot muscles and weakened tendons that support the arch have a higher risk of developing flat feet. Lack of physical activity and poor posture contribute to this issue, as foot muscles are not sufficiently engaged and strengthened.

Excess Body Weight
Increased body weight places extra pressure on the feet, which can cause the arch to collapse. This additional pressure is especially problematic for individuals who stand for long periods or perform physical labor.

Foot Injuries
Injuries such as bone fractures, ligament sprains, or tendon damage can lead to arch problems. These injuries may alter the shape and function of the foot, increasing the likelihood of flat feet.

Associated Diseases and Conditions
Certain medical conditions, such as arthritis, diabetes, or neurological disorders, can contribute to the development of flat feet. These conditions may weaken tendons and ligaments, making it harder to maintain the proper arch shape.

Improper Footwear
Wearing shoes that are not properly fitted or do not provide adequate support (e.g., too tight shoes, high heels, uncomfortable sandals) can weaken the foot muscles and ligaments. Prolonged use of inappropriate footwear may cause foot deformities, including flat feet.

Symptoms and Consequences of Flat Feet

Flat feet can be quite troublesome because their symptoms often aren’t immediately obvious and may develop gradually. In some cases, people with flat feet can live with the condition for years without realizing it’s causing changes in their health. Recognizing the symptoms and understanding the possible consequences of this condition are crucial for timely intervention and preventing more serious problems.

How to Recognize the Problem?

Flat feet usually manifest through several noticeable symptoms that may indicate the foot arch is not properly formed or has weakened. Here’s how you can recognize this problem:

Foot Pain, Especially in the Forefoot or Heel Area
One of the most common symptoms of flat feet is pain localized in the front part of the foot, near the toes, or around the heel (calcaneus). This pain often occurs after prolonged standing, walking, or physical activity.
Feeling of Heaviness and Fatigue in the Legs
People with flat feet often experience a sense of heaviness or fatigue in their legs, especially after standing or walking for a long time. This sensation can be accompanied by discomfort that intensifies over time.
Balance Problems and Unsteady Walking
When the foot lacks a proper arch, maintaining stability and balance becomes difficult. Individuals with flat feet may notice clumsiness while walking, easily losing balance, or needing to be more cautious on uneven surfaces.
Bumps or Painful Nodules on the Foot
If flat feet are left untreated, issues like bone protrusions, bunions, or other deformities may develop. These bumps can be painful, especially when exposed to pressure from footwear.
Pain in the Back, Hips, and Knees
Flat feet can cause gait changes that place excessive strain on other body parts such as the back, hips, and knees. These areas may become painful due to poor posture and uneven weight distribution.
Uneven Wear on Shoes
If you frequently notice that one side of your shoes wears out faster—either the outer or inner part—this may be a sign of flat feet. Footwear can become misshapen due to improper weight distribution on the foot.

Impact on Posture, Gait, and Overall Health

Flat feet don’t just affect the feet themselves—they can cause a range of problems throughout the entire body. Here’s how flat feet can impact posture, gait, and overall health:

Impact on Posture
Due to the lack of a proper arch, flat feet can cause improper body alignment. People with flat feet often tend to tilt their legs inward or outward, leading to poor posture, especially in the lower back. This can result in back pain, stiffness, and problems with neck and shoulder muscles, as the whole body compensates for irregularities in walking.

Gait Disturbance
When the foot cannot properly flex and form its natural arch, walking becomes less efficient. Because of flat feet, the body compensates and changes the way it walks, often leading to unconscious energy overuse and inefficient movement. This can cause quicker fatigue during walking and reduced agility.

Increased Risk of Injuries
Flat feet can increase the risk of injuries, especially when a person overloads the foot or relies on an improper walking pattern. Knees, hips, and back are particularly vulnerable as they bear increased stress from poor posture and load distribution. People with flat feet are also more prone to injuries during sports activities due to their inability to properly distribute body weight and maintain balance.

Impact on Joints and Muscles
Due to unconscious compensation for flat feet, muscles and joints can experience additional strain. People with flat feet often develop pain in the knees, hips, and lower back because muscles and ligaments try to stabilize the body. This abnormal stress can lead to inflammation, reduced flexibility, and chronic pain.

Effect on Daily Life
Long-term flat feet problems can affect quality of life as pain may become constant. These discomforts can interfere with daily activities such as walking, running, and even standing for long periods, which can seriously limit physical activity and reduce energy levels.

Diagnosis and Assessment of Flat Feet at the Fizio Center In Locco

Flat feet can significantly impact health, but with timely diagnosis and precise assessment, appropriate steps can be taken for treatment and prevention of further problems. At the Fizio & Estetik Center In Locco, we conduct thorough diagnostics to accurately determine the cause of the issue and design an individualized treatment plan. Our approach is based on modern analysis methods, expert evaluation, and the latest techniques for precise foot diagnostics.

Professional Examination and Assessment

At the Fizio & Estetik Center In Locco, we approach each patient with care and dedication to gain a complete understanding of their foot condition. Our expert team uses a range of diagnostic techniques, including:

Clinical Examination and Symptom Analysis
The initial assessment begins with a detailed conversation with the patient, where we review all symptoms, pain history, discomfort, and functional impairments. Through this discussion, we aim to determine when and how the symptoms started, whether they have changed over time, and if other contributing factors exist (e.g., excess body weight, injuries, heredity).

Visual Inspection and Palpation of the Feet
During the examination, our physiotherapist visually assesses the foot’s shape, analyzing whether there is deformity, excessive arch collapse, or other issues such as protruding toes or bunions. Palpation is also performed to identify painful areas and detect any inflammatory processes in the tissues.

Testing Flexibility and Mobility
In addition to the visual examination, we test the flexibility and mobility of the feet and joints. This helps us determine whether the joints and muscles are adequate for proper movement or if there are restrictions that may contribute to the development of flat feet.

Gait and Foot Pressure Analysis

Balance and Stability Testing
People with flat feet often experience issues with balance and stability. Through specialized balance tests at our center, we assess how stable the foot is during standing and walking. This evaluation is crucial for identifying the risk of injuries or falls, which are common among individuals with flat feet.

How Are Flat Feet Treated?

Treatment of flat feet requires a comprehensive approach involving various methods and techniques, aiming to restore the normal foot position, alleviate symptoms, and prevent further complications. At the Fizio & Estetik Center In Locco, we approach each case individually and create a treatment plan tailored to the patient’s needs. Our expert team uses a combination of exercises, orthopedic insoles, and physical therapy to achieve the best results.

Exercises for Strengthening the Feet and Correcting Foot Position

One of the most important aspects of treating flat feet is strengthening the muscles and ligaments that support the foot. Through targeted exercises, it is possible to improve foot function, increase stability, and support proper arch alignment.

Exercises to Strengthen the Foot Arch Muscles
Exercises that involve toe lifts, tendon stretches, and ankle flexion and extension can help strengthen the muscles supporting the foot arch. Strengthening these muscles aids in restoring the foot’s natural shape, reducing pain, and improving functionality.

Balance Improvement Exercises
Flat feet often affect balance, so it is important to include exercises that enhance stability and proprioception (the body’s ability to sense foot position). Exercises like standing on one leg or balancing on unstable surfaces can improve balance and help prevent injuries.

Dynamic Walking Exercises
Proper walking can be challenging for people with flat feet. Exercises that focus on correcting walking patterns, such as proper foot placement with each step, can reduce strain and pain. Additionally, exercises involving leg muscle stretching help improve flexibility, which can decrease foot tension.

These exercises can be performed independently or under the supervision of a therapist at our center, and we will teach you how to properly incorporate them into your daily routine.

Orthopedic Insoles – When They Are Needed and How They Help

Orthopedic insoles are often a key part of treating flat feet, especially for individuals with more severe deformities or pronounced symptoms. At the Fizio & Estetik Center In Locco, our physiotherapists work closely with patients to select or customize insoles that can significantly improve foot function.

Correction of Foot Position
Orthopedic insoles help restore the proper alignment of the foot, particularly in cases of arch collapse. These custom-made insoles are designed to support the arch, reduce excessive pressure, and evenly distribute body weight, which can prevent further progression of the condition.

Pain Relief and Comfort
Insoles can reduce pain in the feet, knees, and back commonly caused by flat feet. Shock-absorbing insoles also help decrease stress on joints and bones, thereby improving patients’ overall quality of life.

Prevention and Support
For those aiming to proactively prevent worsening of their condition, orthopedic insoles can help maintain proper foot positioning throughout the day, reducing the risk of new injuries or pain.

Physical Therapy and Manual Techniques for Improving Foot Function

Physical therapy is a key component in treating flat feet, involving various techniques and treatments to improve foot mobility, reduce pain, and increase flexibility. At the Fizio & Estetik Center In Locco, our therapists use the most advanced physical therapy methods and manual techniques to achieve optimal results.

Manual Therapy
Manual therapy is a technique used to release tension and blockages in the foot, ankle, and other body parts related to flat feet. The therapist applies pressure and manipulations to improve joint mobility, reduce pain, and enhance circulation.

Ultrasound and Electrotherapy
These methods are used to alleviate pain and inflammation caused by flat feet. Ultrasound therapy uses sound waves to improve circulation and reduce inflammation, while electrotherapy uses electrical impulses to stimulate muscles and ligaments, improving foot function.

Magnetotherapy
Magnetotherapy uses magnetic fields to improve circulation, reduce pain, and accelerate recovery. Regular treatments can help reduce inflammation and strengthen foot muscles. This therapy is safe, painless, and suitable for long-term symptom relief.

Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy uses acoustic waves to stimulate tissue healing, improve mobility, and reduce pain. This treatment targets tendons, ligaments, and muscles, aiding recovery from foot deformities. It is usually effective for chronic pain and tissue damage.

Laser Therapy
Laser therapy applies low-intensity lasers to stimulate tissue regeneration and reduce inflammation in flat feet. This treatment helps alleviate pain and improve the flexibility of joints and tendons. It is effective for treating various foot-related issues, including deformities.

Flat Feet in Children vs. Adults – Differences in Treatment

Can the Problem Be Resolved in Children?

In children, flat feet are often not a serious problem and can be resolved with early intervention. Children with flat feet usually have not yet fully developed the foot arch, so the issue may improve naturally as the foot grows. However, if pain or poor posture is present, timely treatment is recommended. Treatment for children includes:

Exercises to strengthen the muscles of the feet and legs
Use of appropriate supportive footwear
Orthopedic insoles, if necessary

Experts at our center can recommend specialized exercises and footwear adjustments to help children develop a healthier foot position.

How to Relieve Symptoms in Adults?

In adults, flat feet can cause pain and other complications, but with appropriate treatment, symptoms can be alleviated and foot function improved. Therapy for adults includes:

Orthopedic insoles and specialized footwear that help reduce pain and improve posture.
Physical therapy, which includes muscle strengthening exercises and manual techniques to relieve pain and tension.
Manual therapy and electrotherapy to enhance mobility and reduce inflammation.

Timely treatment in adults can reduce the risk of more serious problems such as pain in the back, knees, or hips, which often develop as a consequence of flat feet.

How Fizio In Locco Helps in Resolving Flat Feet Problems

At the Fizio & Estetik Center In Locco, our approach to addressing flat feet is based on a thorough understanding of each client’s unique needs. Since flat feet can cause a range of issues—from foot pain to posture problems—our goal is to provide personalized therapy that offers optimal solutions and promotes long-term health and function of your feet.

Individualized Approach and Expert Therapists
Every person has unique physical characteristics, meaning our approach to each patient is tailored accordingly. Our therapists conduct a detailed assessment to analyze your situation and accurately determine the root cause of the problem. The first step is a thorough diagnostic process, which may include:

Gait and Posture Analysis: Monitoring your walking pattern helps us identify irregularities that may contribute to flat feet, as well as pinpoint areas under excessive strain or causing pain.
Assessment of Foot Muscle and Ligament Condition: We perform a detailed examination to determine the strength and flexibility of your foot muscles, as weak muscles can be a primary cause of flat feet.
Footwear Review: We recommend paying attention to the shoes you wear, as improper footwear can worsen the condition.

Based on these results, our therapists create a personalized treatment plan. We use only the latest techniques and equipment, designing therapy specifically focused on your needs and goals. Our aim is not only to treat flat feet but also to achieve long-term stability and comfort in your daily activities.

Combination of Manual Techniques, Exercises, and Modern Therapy

Our flat feet therapy includes a combination of different approaches to achieve the best possible results. Each technique contributes to effective correction of the problem and improvement of foot function.

Manual Techniques

Manual therapy is a key element of our approach to treating flat feet. Through various techniques, our therapists work directly with the feet and legs to improve their position and reduce pain:

Joint Mobilization – Using joint mobilization techniques, the therapist can improve the mobility of the foot joints, which is crucial for proper function.
Muscle and Ligament Massage – Manual treatments reduce tension in muscles and ligaments, contributing to improved foot flexibility.
Posture Correction – By targeting specific muscles and joints, therapy can help restore body balance, which directly impacts the reduction of flat feet problems.

Exercises for Strengthening the Feet and Legs

One of the most important aspects of treating flat feet is strengthening the muscles that support the foot and its arch. At our center, we have developed specialized exercise programs that include:

Exercises to Activate Foot Muscles – These exercises help engage and strengthen the muscles that support the foot arch, which can improve foot positioning and relieve symptoms.
Balance and Coordination Exercises – We teach you how to properly distribute your body weight and avoid compensations that may cause pain or injuries.
Exercises with Bands and Balls – Specialized equipment helps increase muscle strength and provides additional support to the feet during exercises.

Why Is Our Approach Effective?

Our holistic approach allows us to address flat feet from all angles, taking into account each client’s physical characteristics, health, and lifestyle habits. By combining manual techniques, exercises, and modern therapy, our therapists provide comprehensive support for healthy feet and a return to an active life.

Prevention – How to Prevent the Onset and Worsening of Flat Feet?

Flat feet can be caused by genetic factors, improper habits, or physical strain. However, the right preventive approach can significantly reduce the risk of developing this problem or worsening an existing condition. At the Fizio & Estetik Center In Locco, we help you understand the measures you can take to maintain the health of your feet and prevent further damage.

Tips for Proper Footwear and Posture

Footwear plays a key role in the health of your feet. Wearing inappropriate shoes can cause many problems, including flat feet, back pain, knee pain, and joint issues. Here are some recommendations for choosing the right footwear:

Arch Support – When selecting shoes, make sure they provide proper support for the foot arch. Shoes with low or no arch support can worsen flat feet.
Wide Toe Box – Shoes that squeeze the toes can cause circulation problems and contribute to the development of flat feet. Choose shoes with enough space for your toes to move comfortably.
Heel Height – High-heeled shoes can overload the front part of the foot and lead to flat foot problems. We recommend shoes with low heels (up to 3 cm) that evenly distribute body weight.
Orthopedic Insoles – If you have any gait irregularities or foot structure issues, orthopedic insoles can help correct foot positioning and reduce strain.

Proper Body Posture

Poor posture can negatively affect your feet and increase stress on the joints, potentially worsening flat feet. Proper posture helps evenly distribute body weight and reduces the risk of injury. Here are some tips for maintaining good posture:

Standing Stability – Try to stand with your weight evenly distributed between both feet, focusing on the middle of the foot rather than on your toes or heels.
Sitting Position – Keep your legs in a natural position while sitting. Avoid crossing your legs, as this can cause muscle imbalances and increase pressure on your feet.
Walking – Walk with a natural stride, keeping your body upright and your feet aligned with your body. Avoid walking on your toes or on the outer edges of your feet.

Recommendations for Daily Activities and Exercise

For preventing flat feet, it is important to include activities and exercises that strengthen the muscles of the feet and legs. This will improve foot function and reduce the load on joints and ligaments. Here are some daily activity recommendations:

Exercises to Strengthen Foot Muscles

Toe Raises – Sit on a chair and lift the toes of one foot upward while keeping the heel on the ground. This simple movement strengthens the foot muscles.
Toe Flexing and Stretching – Sit or stand and bend your toes inward and outward. These exercises help strengthen muscles and improve foot mobility.
Exercises with Socks – Walk on socks so that your feet slide on the floor, increasing foot muscle activity.

Balance and Stability Exercises

Standing on One Leg – Balance exercises like standing on one leg improve foot stability and activate the muscles supporting the arch.
Using a Balance Board – A balance board is an excellent tool for strengthening leg and foot muscles, improving coordination and balance.

Walking and Running

Barefoot Walking – Walking barefoot on natural surfaces (like grass or sand) strengthens foot muscles and helps increase their flexibility. It is a natural way to stimulate the feet and support the arch.
Running Recommendations – If you enjoy running, make sure to wear appropriate footwear that provides adequate protection for your feet and improves your running technique.

Regular Stretching and Massage

Stretching and massaging the feet can relieve tension and improve circulation. We recommend practicing foot massage after a long day, using a massage ball or simple techniques you can do at home.