Flat feet are a common health problem that many people often face. It not only affects aesthetics but also causes many different health problems, especially problems related to joints.
In this article, we will learn about the causes of flat feet, besides Nguyen will share with you some effective treatments to relieve pain and improve the condition of flat feet.
What are flat feet?
Normally, the foot has a circular arc, creating a space between the foot and the ground. However, with flat feet on the ground or with only a very low arc. If people with this condition stand up, the feet are turned outward and the soles of the feet are touching the floor.
Flatfoot is not usually painful. However, when you feel pain and limit your activities, it is necessary to see a specialist doctor for an examination.
Are flat feet dangerous?
In a few cases, the condition does not cause any health problems and does not require treatment. However, in some other cases it can cause different problems and conditions such as:
- Loss of balance: Flat feet can impair your balance, increasing your risk of falling or slipping, especially on uneven or slippery ground.
- Skeleton problem: In some cases, flat feet can cause inhomogeneities in the bone structure of the legs and knees, causing skeletal problems.
- Other injury-related problems: Flat feet can cause other problems such as fractures and osteomyelitis (shin splints).
Causes of flat feet
- Flat feet syndrome is often the result of walking barefoot, using flat-soled sandals or sandals from an early age.
- There are some children who have the soft osteophytes gene in the feet and have the ability to develop flat feet. This is an inherited condition, as in many families, both parents and children have flatfoot syndrome.
- Factors such as fractures, chronic joint conditions, neurological problems, obesity, diabetes, advanced age, and pregnancy all increase the risk.
Exercises for flat feet
1. Use a towel
- Spread the towel on the floor, use the tips of your toes to pull the towel toward your body for 1 minute.
- Repeat 3, 2 times per day.
2. Use rollers or water cans
- Sit still and place a foot roller or a frozen can of ice beside you.
- Use moderate pressure and press down on the ice can with the front part of your foot, then roll the roller back near the heel.
This exercise not only helps improve problems, but also massages the feet and can help reduce pain in the ball of the foot.
3. Take advantage of wall support
- Place your feet against the wall and keep the soles and heels as flat as possible so the toes can be stretched. You can also put a tennis ball or roller in front for more comfort and support.
- Hold the stretch for ten seconds.
- Do 10 reps each, 3-4 times per day.
Some other ways to treat flat feet
Children
The first step in treating flat feet in children is an examination. Children are not as sensitive as adults to such issues, so parents and caregivers should monitor proper foot development during the child's early years. If any abnormalities are found, children should be examined by one of the specialists.
Most cases of flat feet in children are hereditary. However, your child's legs are still flexible and can be treated with:
- Custom soles
- Matching shoes
- Therapeutic Exercises
- Surgery – is often the best treatment to prevent serious complications from developing in the future.
Adult
Many people have no significant problems or need treatment. But your health care practitioner may recommend non-surgical treatments if you experience foot pain, stiffness, or other problems.
Treatment measures include:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), rest, and ice use to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Physical therapies to stretch and strengthen tendons and stiff muscles, improving flexibility and mobility.
- Assistive devices such as foot pads, footrests or heels, and custom shoes.
Nguyen hopes that the above sharing will be effective and useful for your situation. Besides, there are also many articles on health and yoga therapy at Nguyen's blog, especially Youtube channel Nguyen has many other useful exercises and movements, please follow and look forward to Nguyen!
References
Flat Feet (Flatfoot): Types, Causes & Treatment
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