A collapsed arch, or pes planus, is a postural deformity where the foot’s natural arch flattens, causing the sole to make complete or near-complete contact with the ground. This structural change affects how the foot absorbs shock and distributes body weight. Unlike naturally low arches, a collapsed arch develops over time. This common condition affects 15% to 35% of adults. Arch flattening can lead to discomfort, impacting daily activities like walking and standing.
Identifying a Collapsed Arch
A collapsed arch is recognized by specific physical signs and symptoms. A key visual cue is a flattened or absent inner arch, with the sole making full contact with the ground while standing. This can be checked by wetting your feet and stepping onto a flat surface; a complete footprint indicates a likely collapsed arch.
Individuals may experience pain in the arch or heel, worsening with physical activity. Pain can extend to the ankle or lead to general leg fatigue. Other signs include uneven shoe wear, an ankle that rolls inward (overpronation), or swelling along the inside of the ankle.
Causes for a collapsed arch vary, from genetic predispositions to wear and tear. Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, where a key tendon supporting the arch weakens or tears, is a frequent cause. Injury, aging, and excessive body weight also contribute to the condition’s development or worsening.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Addressing a collapsed arch often begins with conservative non-surgical approaches aimed at alleviating discomfort and improving foot function. A fundamental step involves using supportive footwear with ample arch support. Shoes with proper arch contours help maintain foot alignment and distribute pressure evenly across the sole.
Orthotic devices provide additional arch support. These can be over-the-counter inserts or custom-made orthotics, with custom options offering a more precise fit. Orthotics lift the arch, reducing strain on supporting ligaments and tendons.
Physical therapy strengthens arch-supporting muscles and improves foot mechanics. Specific exercises build strength in intrinsic foot muscles. Examples include towel scrunches (using toes to pull a towel), calf raises (lifting onto the balls of your feet), and marble pickups (using toes to pick up marbles), which enhance toe and foot muscle coordination.
For acute pain or inflammation, rest and ice application provide relief. Limiting high-impact activities allows tissues to recover. Applying ice packs for 15-20 minutes several times daily helps reduce swelling and pain.
Modifying activities reduces repetitive stress on the arches. This may involve switching from high-impact sports to lower-impact options like swimming or cycling. Managing body weight is also important, as excess weight increases stress on the feet and arches.
Surgical Considerations
Surgical intervention may be considered when non-surgical treatments do not adequately alleviate pain or improve foot function. Surgery is reserved for individuals with severe, persistent pain, a notable deformity, or when conservative methods have failed. The decision is individual, based on the arch collapse extent and its impact on quality of life.
Surgical procedures primarily realign foot bones and repair or transfer tendons to restore arch support. For example, surgery may address posterior tibial tendon dysfunction by repairing the tendon or using a healthy tendon. Bone procedures can involve cutting and repositioning bones to rebuild the arch, or fusing joints for stabilization.
While techniques vary, the general aim is to recreate a stable and functional arch. Surgical recovery involves immobilization, followed by physical therapy to regain strength and mobility. This is a substantial undertaking, and patients are advised of the recovery commitment.
Post-Treatment Care and Foot Health
Maintaining foot health after addressing a collapsed arch, whether through non-surgical or surgical means, is important for sustained improvement and to prevent recurrence. Consistent use of orthotics or supportive footwear, as recommended by a professional, remains a cornerstone of long-term care. These inserts uphold the arch’s structure, distributing pressure and reducing strain.
Regular foot exercises maintain the strength and flexibility of arch-supporting muscles and tendons. Continuing exercises like towel scrunches, marble pickups, and calf raises preserves gains and promotes ongoing stability. These contribute to better foot mechanics and resilience.
Monitoring symptoms for reoccurring pain, discomfort, or changes in foot shape is part of ongoing care. Promptly seeking medical attention if symptoms return or worsen allows for timely treatment adjustments. This proactive approach manages potential issues before they become significant.
Lifestyle adjustments further contribute to long-term foot health. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces load and stress on the arches. Choosing appropriate, lower-impact activities also helps protect the arches from future collapse.