Flat foot

With a flat (fore)foot, also known as a splayfoot, the sole of the foot rests fully or partially on the ground. There is hardly any arch in the foot. If you have a splayfoot or a flat forefoot, you may experience a sharp, burning pain beneath and above the ball of the foot. It is also possible to have a flat foot without any pain. Calluses, corns and blisters cause pain when standing and walking.

• You can recognise a flat foot by the widening of the forefoot.
• The forefoot may feel pinched in your shoes.
• Standing or walking for long periods can cause discomfort on or under the forefoot.
• Symptoms may also develop in the toes.
• A flat foot does not necessarily cause any symptoms.

The cause may be hereditary, but age also plays a part. Other causes include strain from wearing high-heeled shoes, being overweight or rheumatism.

The cause of a fallen forefoot will be addressed by means of corrective podiatric insoles and in some cases a (silicone) orthosis for example, in cases of severe claw toes. If necessary, a supportive taping placed. The expected outcome of this treatment is that the patient will be symptom-free.