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Acquired flat foot, also known as adult-acquired flatfoot deformity, occurs when the foot arch collapses over time. The condition develops due to injury, arthritis, tendon dysfunction, or aging. At Care Podiatry, we commonly treat patients with acquired flat foot in Anaheim and Lakewood, CA.
Acquired flat foot can develop due to various factors. Those are generally categorized into two main types. Factors that put extra stress on the tendon and factors that weaken the tendon itself.
These include obesity, injuries, certain foot shapes, or tight calf muscles. The conditions can increase the pressure on the posterior tibial tendon that gets damaged over time. In most cases, pre-existing foot conditions like flexible flat feet, an extra bone near the arch, or poor foot alignment can make it more likely to be at risk.
The internal factors can weaken the tendon and make it more prone to damage. These include conditions like diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, and long-term use of steroids. There can also be some genetic factors that affect how the body repairs and maintains tendons. However, sometimes, acquired flat foot develops due to a combination of increased strain and reduced tendon strength. The exact impact of each factor can vary from person to person.
An acquired flat foot worsens without proper treatment. What begins as mild arch discomfort or ankle pain gradually leads to structural changes in the foot. It affects stability, mobility, and alignment. Visiting us for the early podiatric care is important because an untreated acquired flat foot can cause –
Addressing the condition in its early stage prevents long-term complications and reduces the need for surgery.
Stage 1 (Early)
Stage 2 (Progressive)
Stage 3 (Advanced)
Stage 4 (Severe)
Tendon inflammation without major structural change
The arch begins to collapse, and changes in foot alignment
Rigid flatfoot deformity develops
The ankle joint becomes affected
Swelling, mild ankle pain, and arch discomfort
Visible flattening, heel tilting outward, and increased pain
Stiffness, constant pain, difficulty walking
Arthritis, significant instability, and limited mobility
At Care Podiatry, our diagnosis includes –
Proper diagnosis helps us to determine the stage and severity of your condition.
We start with a detailed review of your medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle factors. A comprehensive foot and ankle examination helps us to know tendon strength and overall stability.
If needed, we use imaging such as X-rays to check bone alignment and determine the stage of deformity.
We develop a customized treatment strategy to reduce pain and improve foot condition, depending on the severity.
Acquired flat foot can progress over time, so we schedule follow-up visits to observe healing, adjust treatment, and protect your long-term mobility.
Book your appointment at Care Podiatry today to receive a treatment plan that improves your acquired flat foot conditions.
It is important to choose the right podiatrist when managing a progressive condition like acquired flat foot. At Care Podiatry, we use patient-focused care to provide long-term solutions. Book your appointment with us to receive a treatment plan that improves your acquired flat foot conditions.
