Foot Arch Disorders

Our feet are marvels that support our whole bodies and make it easier for us to move around. Sometimes, the arch can have problems and change the way we walk. Knowing about these problems is important to spot these foot conditions and get the right help.

Here are some common and not-so-common foot conditions that have to do with arches:

Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease (CMT)

CMT is a genetic disease that affects the nerves around the body, which can cause foot deformities like high arches. It can make muscles weak and cause loss of feeling in the feet, making the arches less stable and making it hard to move around.

Tarsal Coalition

This is a rare congenital condition in which two or more foot bones join in a way that isn’t normal. It usually affects the arch and backfoot. This fusion makes it hard to move and may lead to flat feet or high arches, which are painful.

Flat Feet (Pes Planus) 

People do get flat feet sometimes, but serious cases happen less often. When the arches of the feet fall, putting the whole bottom of the foot on the ground is called flat feet. This disease can be present at birth or develop over time. It may cause pain and make it hard to stand or walk for long amounts of time.

High Arches (Pes Cavus)

High arches are less common than flat feet. They happen when the arch of the foot is too high. Genetics or problems with the nervous system can cause this disease. High arches can make you unstable, hurt your feet, and make it hard to find shoes that fit.

Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD)

PTTD is a problem that gets worse over time and affects the posterior tibial tendon, which is an important part of the arch’s stability. The arch falls apart as it gets weaker, which can cause flat feet and make it hard to walk. To successfully control PTTD, early action is very important.

Knowing how uncommon these foot conditions are and what they mean makes it even more important to get your feet checked regularly and see a doctor if you have chronic foot pain or weakness or notice changes in your arches. A podiatrist can carefully examine your feet, suggest the right diagnosis tests, and create a personalized treatment plan to fix your specific foot problem and keep your feet healthy.

If you have questions or concerns about your foot and ankle, visit one of Chicago’s top podiatrists.

Call the friendly My Chicago Foot Expert staff at (773) 561-8100 or click here to schedule an appointment with Cook County podiatrist Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM, in our modern, comfortable Ravenswood office today.