Flat Foot and Fallen Arches
Comprehensive diagnosis and evidence-based treatment for Flat Foot and Fallen Arches in Pune by Foot and Ankle Specialist Dr Shyam Thakkar at ARTICUL8 Clinic, Erandwane. Loss of natural foot arch causing foot fatigue, inward rolling ankle, and medial arch pain.
Clinical Imaging: Medial arch collapse & hindfoot valgus alignment evaluation.
Understanding Flat Foot and Fallen Arches
Flat foot is a condition in which the arch of the foot collapses, causing the entire sole to come in contact with the ground. It can affect one or both feet and may be present from childhood or develop later in adulthood. While some people have flat feet without symptoms, others experience pain, fatigue, and progressive deformity.
Classification, Types & Severity Grades
1. Flexible Flat Foot
Arch appears when sitting or standing on toes. Common in children and young adults. Often painless but may cause foot fatigue.
2. Rigid Flat Foot
Arch is absent even when non-weight bearing. Usually associated with stiffness and pain. May be due to bone or joint abnormalities.
3. Adult Acquired Flat Foot
Develops later in life, most commonly due to posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD). Progressive condition if untreated.
Common Symptoms & Warning Signs
If you experience one or more of these symptoms, a clinical evaluation by a foot and ankle specialist is recommended:
Causes & Contributing Factors
- Weak or damaged posterior tibial tendon (PTTD)
- Ligament laxity & childhood developmental issues
- Obesity, Diabetes, or Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Previous ankle or foot trauma / Lisfranc injury
- Long-standing improper or unsupportive footwear
Diagnostic Methods & Imaging
Dr Shyam Thakkar performs systematic clinical exams combined with advanced imaging to formulate an accurate diagnosis:
Detailed clinical examination & stance footprint assessment
Assessment of foot alignment & single-leg heel raise test
Weight-bearing X-rays to assess bone alignment angles
MRI to evaluate tendon and ligament damage in progressive cases
Treatment Options & Care Pathways
Phase 1: Evidence-Based Non-Surgical Therapies
Flat Foot Reconstruction & Tendon Transfer
Combining calcaneal shift osteotomies, flexor tendon transfers, and spring ligament reinforcement to rebuild a permanent functional arch.
Why Early Treatment Matters & Risks of Delay
Delaying medical evaluation or ignoring persistent symptoms can lead to severe joint or tendon complications:
When Should You See Dr. Shyam Thakkar?
Seek an immediate consultation if you experience any of the following clinical signs:
Frequently Asked Questions — Flat Foot and Fallen Arches
1. What is flat foot?
Flat foot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is reduced or collapsed, causing most of the sole to touch the ground. It may be present since childhood or develop later in life (adult acquired flat foot).
2. What causes flat foot in adults?
Common causes include weak or damaged posterior tibial tendon (posterior tibial tendon dysfunction), ligament laxity, previous injuries, arthritis, obesity, improper footwear and some developmental or neuromuscular conditions.
3. What are the symptoms of flat foot?
Symptoms may include inner foot or ankle pain, swelling, heel pain, calf tightness, foot fatigue and difficulty standing or walking for long periods.
4. How is flat foot diagnosed?
Diagnosis for flat foot treatment pune is based on physical examination and may include X-rays or MRI to assess alignment, flexibility and tendon or ligament damage.
5. Can flat foot be treated without surgery?
Yes, many patients improve with orthotic insoles, supportive footwear, physiotherapy, stretching and activity modification, especially in flexible or early cases.
6. When is flat foot surgery needed?
Surgery for flat feet correction is considered when pain, deformity or functional problems continue despite proper non-surgical treatment, or when imaging shows structural changes that need correction.
Dr Shyam Thakkar
Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Specialist & Surgeon
Expert care for Flat Foot and Fallen Arches. Consult Dr Shyam Thakkar at Erandwane clinic or leading Pune hospitals.