The diagnosis of AAFD is made based upon the patient’s history, physical examination, and standing x-rays of the foot and ankle. AAFD has also been associated with hypertension, obesity, diabetes, and exposure to steroids. These may include degeneration of the posterior tibial tendon, previous trauma to the foot or ankle, muscle imbalance from neuromuscular disorders, inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, and Charcot arthropathy. As the deformity progresses, pain is typically experienced on the outside of the ankle as the heel continues to roll outward. With time, as the arch flattens, the foot begins to roll inward. The pain worsens throughout the day and is often relieved with rest. Patients typically complain of a vague pain on the inner part of the ankle joint due to inflammation and degeneration of the posterior tibial tendon. This is differentiated from the typical flatfoot in that it is painful, and worsens with time. In the adult population, approximately 20-30% of people have flat feet, but most experience no symptoms.Īdult acquired flatfoot deformity (AAFD) encompasses a range of disorders leading to progressive loss of the arch of the foot. However, as we mature, the arch of the foot develops. Indeed, many professional athletes have what is defined as a flat foot. Falling Arches: Adult Acquired Flatfoot Deformityĭespite concerns over the shape of one’s foot, most flat feet do not cause dysfunction and are typically considered within the range of normal, thus not needing treatment.
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