Symptomatic Flat Feet

Diagnosis/Definition

• Chronic repetitive aching type discomfort in the medial aspect of the foot while standing and walking.
• Decreased medial longitudinal arch height with medial talar head prominence.
• Asymptomatic flat feet do not require treatment.

Initial Diagnosis and management

• History and physical examination.
• Appropriate radiographic (weightbearing feet) and laboratory studies (rheumatology panel evaluation in patients with inflammatory, bilateral, and other joint presentations).

Ongoing Management and Objective

• Initial primary care treatment for foot pain should include a three-month trial period of the following:
  • NSAIDs
  • Adults - 200 to 400 milligrams (mg) every four to six hours as needed for up to 2 weeks. Example: Ibuprofen
  • Take tablet or capsule forms of these medicines with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.
  • Do not lie down for about 15 to 30 minutes after taking the medicine. This helps to prevent irritation that may lead to trouble in swallowing.
  • To lessen stomach upset, these medicines should be taken with food or an antacid.
• Over-the-counter arch pads for insoles (i.e., Polysorb or Dr. Scholl's)
• Soft supporting shoes (running or walking type)
• Calf stretching
• Decreased activity (rest).

Indication a profile is needed

• Any limitations that affect strength, range of movement, and efficiency of feet, legs, lower back and pelvic girdle.
• Slightly limited mobility of joints, muscular weakness, or other musculo-skeletal defects that may prevent moderate marching, climbing, timed walking, or prolonged effect.
• Defects or impairments that require significant restriction of use.