What is slewfoot?

Slewfoot (Pes Planovalgus)

Slewfoot, also known as flatfoot or pes planovalgus, is a condition characterized by the collapse of the medial longitudinal arch of the foot. This means the arch on the inside of the foot flattens, allowing the entire sole of the foot to come into near-complete or complete contact with the ground.

Key Characteristics:

• Flattened Arch: The most obvious symptom is the visible lack of arch on the inside of the foot. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Flattened%20Arch
• Inward Ankle Deviation: The ankle often rolls inward (pronates) with flatfoot, which can contribute to other problems. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Inward%20Ankle%20Deviation
• Pain: While some individuals with flat feet experience no pain, others may have pain in the foot, ankle, leg, knee, hip, or lower back. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Pain
• Stiffness: The foot may feel stiff or rigid, particularly in rigid flatfoot.
• Tiredness: Feet may tire easily, particularly after prolonged standing or walking. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Tiredness

Causes:

Flatfoot can have several causes:

• Genetics: Flat feet can run in families.
• Injury: Trauma to the foot or ankle can damage the tendons and ligaments that support the arch.
• Tendon Problems: Dysfunction or rupture of the posterior tibial tendon (which supports the arch) is a common cause.
• Arthritis: Arthritis in the foot or ankle can lead to flatfoot. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Arthritis
• Nerve Damage: Conditions that affect nerves can weaken muscles and contribute to flatfoot.
• Obesity: Excess weight can put extra stress on the arches. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Obesity
• Age: The arches can weaken and flatten over time.
• Medical Conditions: Certain conditions like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy can cause flatfoot. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Medical%20Conditions

Types of Flatfoot:

• Flexible Flatfoot: The arch is present when the foot is not bearing weight, but it disappears when standing. This is common in children and often does not require treatment. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Flexible%20Flatfoot
• Rigid Flatfoot: The arch is absent whether the foot is bearing weight or not. This is often caused by a bone abnormality. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Rigid%20Flatfoot
• Acquired Flatfoot: Develops later in life, often due to posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Acquired%20Flatfoot

Diagnosis:

A doctor can diagnose flatfoot with a physical exam. They may also order X-rays to evaluate the bones in the foot.

Treatment:

Treatment for flatfoot depends on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause. Options include:

• Arch Supports/Orthotics: These can help support the arch and reduce pain. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Arch%20Supports
• Stretching: Stretching exercises can help improve flexibility in the foot and ankle. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Stretching
• Physical Therapy: Strengthens the muscles in the foot and ankle. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Physical%20Therapy
• Medications: Pain relievers can help manage pain.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the problem. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Surgery
• Proper Footwear: Wearing shoes with good arch support and cushioning can alleviate symptoms. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Proper%20Footwear