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Transverse flatfoot, is a more common problem than you think.
Metatarsal pain, a burning sensation, the feeling of the foot spreading out when walking, as well as difficulties in selecting comfortable footwear, are typical symptoms of transverse flatfoot, one of the most common foot deformities in adults. This condition, although often underestimated, can over time lead to more serious disturbances in gait biomechanics and pain not only in the feet, but also in the knees, hips or spine.
- What is transverse flatfoot? Anatomy and mechanism of deformity
- Causes and risk factors for the development of transverse flatfoot
- Symptoms and warning signs, when to react?
- How to confirm transverse flatfoot?
- Conservative treatment, or the first line of therapy
- The role of physiotherapy in the treatment of transverse flatfoot
- When is the surgical treatment?
- Prevention and daily habits to support foot health
- Healthy feet are the foundation of a fit body
Based on the experience of specialists in physiotherapy and podiatry, we present a full range of knowledge: from anatomy and causes, through symptoms, diagnosis and effective treatment, to measures to support recovery, not forgetting prevention.
You will learn how to recognize the first symptoms of transverse flatfoot, when it is advisable to seek the help of a specialist, and what therapeutic methods (both conservative and supportive) help regain walking comfort.
What is transverse flatfoot? Anatomy and mechanism of deformity
Transverse flatfoot is a deformity involving a lowering of the transverse arch of the foot, the part of the vault that runs at the level of the heads of the metatarsal bones. In a healthy foot, the load is distributed evenly over the heads of the 1st and 5th metatarsal bones, while in transverse flatfoot there is a collapse of the arch and overloading of the central heads (II-IV).
Over time, the deformity can worsen and lead to permanent structural and compensatory changes in the higher segments of the body. Our feet are responsible for the posture of the entire body. If left untreated, flat feet can lead to overloading of the hip and knee joints.
Causes and risk factors for the development of transverse flatfoot
Whenever there are doubts. Early The most common causes of transverse flatfoot include:
- Wearing inappropriate footwear (especially narrow shoes or high heels);
- Overload from standing work or being overweight;
- Weakening of the short muscles of the foot and failure of the ligamentous apparatus;
- Congenital anatomical predisposition;
- Degenerative processes and age-related structural changes.
It is worth mentioning that the problem more often affects women, especially after the age of 40, as well as physically active people who do not care about recovery and overload prevention.
Symptoms and warning signs, when to react?
Transverse flatfoot develops gradually. Initially, symptoms may be subtle, but they increase over time. Typical symptoms include:
- Pain and burning in the forefoot (especially under the heads of the 2nd and 3rd metatarsal bones);
- The formation of calluses and corns on the sole;
- Deformity of the fingers (hallux valgus, hammer toes);
- Difficulties in shoe selection;
- The feeling of „spilling” the foot;
- Foot fatigue after just a short walk.
- Changes in walking patterns.
Ignoring these signals can lead to chronic inflammation and a significant decrease in quality of life.
How to confirm transverse flatfoot?
Proper diagnosis of transverse flatfoot includes:
- Clinical history and assessment of complaints;
- Palpation examination and evaluation of the condition of the skin and any imprints;
- Gait and foot loading analysis (e.g., podoscope platform, plantography);
- In some cases - an X-ray or ultrasound of the foot to evaluate internal structures.
A physiotherapy or podiatry specialist can also perform functional tests, assessing foot muscle work and ranges of motion.
Conservative treatment, or the first line of therapy
For transverse flatfoot, the mainstay of treatment is conservative therapy, including:
- Selection of custom orthotics
- Exercises to strengthen the short muscles of the foot (e.g., lifting the toes, grasping a towel);
- Manual therapy and massages to relax overstressed structures;
- Kinesiotaping supporting transverse arch
Patient education on walking ergonomics and shoe selection.This will be handled by specialists.
Regular use of orthotics and systematic exercise bring noticeable results after just a few weeks.
The role of physiotherapy in the treatment of transverse flatfoot
Physiotherapy plays a key role in the treatment and prevention of foot deformities. W Profizjoclinic We use a comprehensive approach that includes:
- Individual functional assessment
- Manual fascial and trigger point therapy;
- Stabilization and sensorimotor exercises;
- Neuromuscular control training;
- Instruction for independent work at home.
In some cases, physical therapy is also used (e.g. shock wave) to reduce pain.
Light Force therapy in the first phase after injury has very good results in reducing inflammation, reducing swelling, pain and accelerating recovery
When is the surgical treatment?
Surgery for transverse flatfoot is rarely considered, usually when conservative therapy fails and the deformity causes significant functional limitations. Treatments may include correction of metatarsal bone alignment or surgical removal of secondary lesions (e.g. calluses, ganglions).
After surgery, rehabilitation is essential, from weight-bearing and gait re-education to a return to full functional capacity.
Prevention and daily habits to support foot health
Prevention of transverse flatfoot should be a daily practice. It includes:
- Wearing comfortable, wide shoes made of natural materials;
- Avoiding standing still for long periods of time without moving;
- Regular exercises to activate the foot;
- Maintaining a healthy body weight;
- Checking the condition of the feet with a specialist (e.g., once a year).
Simple changes in daily functioning can prevent serious problems in the future.
Healthy feet are the foundation of a fit body
Transverse flatfoot is a common but effectively treatable problem. The key is early recognition and appropriate action, from changing footwear to custom orthotics to physiotherapy.
If you experience pain in the forefoot or notice changes in the shape of your foot, don't delay. Make an appointment for a consultation at Profizjoclinic.
Profizjoclinic - take care of your feet with the help of specialists.
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