Flat feet

[alwaysane]

Hi. I think I have a case of flat feet, but have not seen a doctor to do an actual diagnosis. Are there any activities that are unsuitable for people with flat feet? I like dancing (especially latin and social latin) a lot and wonder if that will aggravate my condition.

[MORELLO]

GPs and feet don't mix well. Make an appointment with your  community Chiropodist/Podiatrist at your local health centre for a diagnosis and advice.

[vinny200]

I think they use to say you couldnt join the Army with flat feet.Havent got a clue why?

[MORELLO]

vinny200 - it's because flat feet, or navicular drop, cause the feet to pronate, ie. 'roll' inwards. This in turn causes internal rotation of the lower leg placing undue stress on the knee joint, femur and occasionally hip. As you can imagine this can cause discomfort, and doesn't make for an efficient soldier who may be expected to travel long distances on foot.

[vinny200]

Cheers MORELLO,are you a Chiropodist.If notyou should be!!

[MORELLO]

I'm a State Registered Podiatrist.

[AllYourBase]

Swimming is a good exercise for people who suffer the problems that morello describes. There is little or no load bearing on the parts often made painful by this condition.

[alwaysane]

Thank you so much for your advice. I will be making a trip to the podiatrist soon. I do have another question though.

It seems that the shoes that I wear, be they sneakers, flats or heels, the outer part of the heels tend to wear off more significantly than the inside. Hence my heels will have a problem of slanting outwards (i.e. the part of the heel aligning the smallest toe wears off significantly more than the part aligning the biggest toe.)

I don't know why...

[MORELLO]

It's nothing to worry about unless excessive. The foot is in supination as the heel strikes, as part of the gait cycle, causing the wear seen. Don't worry about it.