What is the medical name for fallen foot arches?

Medical Name for Fallen Foot Arches

The medical term for fallen foot arches is pes planus, also known as flatfoot or pes planovalgus. 1

Definition and Characteristics

Pes planus is characterized by:

• Reduction or absence of the medial longitudinal arch (MLA) of the foot 2
• Flattening of the arch during weight-bearing activities 1
• The talus subluxating medially, the calcaneus in valgus position, and the forefoot in supination and external rotation related to the midfoot 3

Types of Pes Planus

Based on Flexibility:

1. Flexible pes planus:

   • Normal arch during non-weight-bearing or tiptoeing
   • Arch flattens when standing or bearing weight
   • Most common type, especially in children 1

2. Rigid pes planus:

   • Arch remains collapsed regardless of weight-bearing status
   • Often indicates underlying pathology
   • Requires specialist referral 1

Based on Onset:

1. Congenital/Developmental:

   • Common in young children (affects up to 14% of children)
   • Often resolves with age as foot musculature strengthens 1, 2

2. Acquired:

   • Develops later in life
   • Most commonly due to posterior tibial tendon dysfunction
   • Can result from trauma, arthritis, or neuromuscular conditions 1

Clinical Significance

Pes planus can be:

• Asymptomatic: Requires no treatment, especially in children where it's often part of normal development 4
• Symptomatic: May cause pain, fatigue, or functional limitations

Untreated symptomatic pes planus may lead to:

• Increased risk of injuries including hallux valgus, tendinitis, and plantar fasciitis
• Metatarsal pain, knee pain, and lower back pain
• Reduced ability to engage in physical activities 5

Management Approaches

For Children:

• Observation for asymptomatic cases
• Maintenance of healthy weight
• Conservative treatment for flexible pes planus without signs of underlying conditions 1, 4

For Symptomatic Cases:

• Orthotic devices (arch support insoles) can provide relief by:
  • Shortening stance time
  • Improving propulsion force
  • Distributing pressure more evenly across the midfoot 5
• Physical therapy to strengthen foot musculature
• Appropriate footwear selection

For Severe or Rigid Cases:

• Surgical intervention may be considered for refractory symptomatic cases
• Options include calcaneal lengthening or subtalar fusion to restore a stable plantigrade foot 3

Important Considerations

• Foot deformities, including pes planus, are risk factors for foot ulcer development in patients with peripheral arterial disease or diabetes 6
• Patients with foot deformities should be referred to a podiatrist for evaluation and care 6
• Therapeutic footwear may be necessary for patients with pes planus and other risk factors 6

Understanding the specific type and cause of pes planus is essential for determining the appropriate management approach and preventing potential complications.