Gymnast Dipa Karmakar is handicapped by a condition of the feet called flatfoot, which affected the quality of her jump and led to her missing the bronze medal during the Rio Olympics. A medical test was originally conducted for her condition, ruling her unfit for gymnastics. However, Karmakar’s coach Bisweswar Nandi was hopeful that Karmakar could tame her condition through exercises. After 15 years of devotion to the sport, Karmakar became the first female gymnast from India to participate in the Olympics.
Having flat feet can create a myriad of foot and ankle problems Dr. Paul Klein is a podiatrist who specializes in helping people suffering from flat feet and other foot disorders.
What are Flat Feet?
Flat feet is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arch never formed during growth.
Problems
- Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
- Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
- Knees – if you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms:
- Pain around the heel or arch area
- Trouble standing on the tip toe.
- Swelling around the inside of the ankle.
- Flat look to one or both feet.
- Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment:
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
At North Jersey Podiatry located in Wayne N.J., we specialize in helping people with foot and ankle disorders. To schedule an appointment call (973) 595-1555.
