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Horizontal flat feet. Transverse flatfoot: causes and how to treat

Flat feet is a widespread disease. The pathology manifests itself in flattening of the bone base of the foot, causing contact with the surface at all its points. Symptoms of the disease are easy to determine by listening to the signals of your own body. In medicine, there are a number of main types of flat feet:

– deformation of the internal or external arches, increasing the width and length of a person’s foot;
Transverse flatfoot – characterized by flattening of the transverse arch, causing a pathological change in the bone of the big toe;
– simultaneous deformation of all arches of the feet, causing varying degrees of disease.

Transverse flatfoot is considered common and can be congenital or acquired. It is more often observed in middle-aged women; the manifestation of the disease in men and children is not excluded. Initial degree Flat feet do not show a pronounced character and can be manifested by the presence of symptoms:

Permanent painful sensations in the foot area after walking;
Enlarged thumb bone with visible protruding deformity;
Frequent cramps in the muscle tissue of the lower leg;
Formation of calluses, corns and skin thickening in the forefoot;
Curvature of the thumb, causing it to rise above the adjacent finger.

In advanced forms of the disease, the symptoms are complex. Pain sensations spread to the lower back, spine, joints of the hips and knees. There is a pathological deformation of the remaining toes, taking on the shape of a hammer. Transverse flatfoot is classified into three main degrees:

Causes of the disease

The formation of transverse flatfoot in rare cases is congenital. Much more common is the acquired form of the disease, caused by for various reasons. For example, symptoms appear with sudden weight gain, previous injuries to the forefoot, development of plasticity of the connective tissue, and paralysis of the lower extremities.

Transverse flatfoot develops as a result of intense physical activity, due to wearing uncomfortable tight shoes with high heels, narrow toes or high insteps. The cause will be prolonged stress on the forefoot caused by professional activity requiring long periods of standing.

Flaw useful substances in the human body, stimulating the manifestation of relaxation of muscle tissue, increased elasticity of ligaments, rickets provokes the development of flat feet. The listed factors characterize the causes of pathological changes in the lower extremities of a person.

Treatment of transverse flatfoot

Treatment of the disease is prescribed by a doctor after a thorough examination and. It is important to remember: a severe form of the disease in adults cannot be completely cured without surgery. Depending on the stage of development, surgical or conservative treatment is used.

The conservative treatment method allows you to get rid of the progressive effects caused by transverse flatfoot. A number of health procedures include limiting physical activity, selecting specialized shoes with orthopedic effect, reducing overweight.

Having discovered obvious symptoms characterizing transverse flatfoot, it is useful to use therapeutic massage and gymnastic exercises that help reduce muscle tone. In the presence of inflammatory process applies drug treatment local use, anti-inflammatory and painkillers, ointments, creams.

Advanced or complex forms of transverse flatfoot must be treated surgically. Indications for surgical intervention include severe pain, ineffective conservative treatment, severe deformation of the feet, which impedes the functioning of the musculoskeletal system. Surgery is aimed at correcting the transverse arch of the foot and changing the deformation angle of the big toe. The use of the method guarantees the absence of regression causing the resumption of flatfoot development.

How to treat transverse flatfoot with traditional methods

cure initial form transverse flatfoot is possible at home by turning to traditional, proven methods for help. Home treatment of the disease involves regular performance of special gymnastic exercises, massage, and therapeutic baths.

Special foot gymnastics requires preliminary preparation. Bottom part It is recommended to steam the feet in solutions prepared before direct use. For baths, prepare a decoction of medicinal chamomile, pine needles, and sea salt. It is necessary to lower your feet into a hot liquid, which is heated as it cools. The duration of the procedure is 20-40 minutes.

Exercises aimed at treating flat feet consist of the following:

Preventive measures

Flat feet are hereditary diseases. If there is a risk of developing a disease, pay close attention to disease prevention. Following simple recommendations will be the key to healthy legs; timely response to warning symptoms will help avoid the development of the disease.

It is important to monitor the health of your feet, avoiding uncomfortable shoes, walking for long periods of time in high heels, giving your feet proper rest after a heavy load, preventing excess weight by paying attention to Special attention diet In order to prevent the development of transverse flatfoot, exclude probable reasons leading to foot deformation. It is useful to regularly do preventive foot massage after physical activity:

Massaging movements of the sole are performed with the back of the hand;
Rub the foot with the pads of the fingers in a circular motion;
The surface of the feet can be rubbed with a hand clenched into a fist, applying light pressure;
Apply foot compression 3-4 times, several times a day.

If prevention does not help and symptoms of flat feet develop, begin treatment immediately without waiting for serious consequences.

Flat feet are a type of deformation of the foot area in which its arches are subject to lowering, resulting in a complete loss of their inherent shock-absorbing and spring functions. Depending on which arch of the foot is flattened, transverse and longitudinal flat feet are distinguished. There are also congenital and acquired flat feet. Various shapes Flat feet affect about 45% of all adults. Pathology is more often detected in women.

What is flat feet?

Flatfoot is a change in the shape of the foot, characterized by drooping of its longitudinal and transverse arches. With flat feet, the structure of the normal arch of the foot, both longitudinal (along the inner edge of the foot) and transverse - along the line of the base of the toes, is quite pronounced or almost completely changes. As a complication, pain occurs in the spine and arthrosis of the knee and hip joints.

The foot is a natural shock absorber that protects the body from shaking when walking and allows you to maintain balance when moving. When considering the shape of the foot, two arches are distinguished - longitudinal and transverse.

The longitudinal arch is the curvature of the foot on the inside from the heel to the big toe joint. It is usually clearly visible.
The transverse arch is less noticeable. It is an arch at the base of the toes (where the metatarsals end).

When the muscular-ligamentous apparatus is weakened, the normal shape of the foot is disrupted. The expression of the arches is lost, the foot settles and spreads out. This pathology is defined as flat feet.

Up to 50% of the world's population suffers from flat feet. Women are 4 times more susceptible to this disease than men. In 3% of cases, flat feet are registered from birth, by the age of 2 in 24% of children, by the 4th in 32% of children, by the age of seven in 40% of children, and after the age of 11, half of adolescents suffer from flat feet.

Kinds

Flat feet are divided into longitudinal and transverse. Depending on how the foot expands: in width or length. Currently, there are such types of flat feet: longitudinal, transverse, combined.

To date most common form The foot deformity is transverse. There is a distinction between acquired and congenital pathology.

Longitudinal flatfoot

Longitudinal flatfoot is characterized by flattening of the longitudinal arch of the foot. At the same time, its length increases and almost the entire area of the sole comes into contact with the floor. It is noteworthy that longitudinal flat feet are characteristic mainly of women. It is influenced by body weight: excess weight increases the load on the feet and longitudinal flatfoot becomes more pronounced. The age at which longitudinal flatfoot most often occurs is 16–25 years.

There are four stages of longitudinal flatfoot:

pre-disease stage (prodromal stage);
intermittent flat feet;
flat;
flatvalgus foot.

At the pre-illness stage, a patient with flat feet is concerned about rapid fatigue when walking, pain in the upper part of the arch of the foot and the muscles of the lower leg after prolonged static loads.

Transverse flatfoot

If we are talking, for example, about the transverse arch (and it is deformed in 55.23% of cases), then the five metatarsal bones, on which the entire frontal part of the foot rests, diverge like a fan. In this case, the foot is shortened, there is an external deviation of the big toe and abnormal flexion/contraction of the middle toe. Typically, this happens to people between 35 and 50 years of age.

The proportion of transverse flatfoot, according to various sources, ranges from 55% to 80%. The disease usually develops in middle-aged people (35-50 years old). Women suffer from transverse flatfoot 20 times more often than men.

By nature, flat feet are distinguished:

Congenital is detected from 5-6 years of age, because in younger children all the signs of this disease are expressed.
Traumatic is formed after bone fractures, accompanied by a violation of the arches of the foot.
Paralytically flat - a complication of the suffered, appears due to paresis, paralysis of the muscles of the foot, as well as the calf muscles of the leg.
Rachitic is observed in children due to impaired mineralization of bone tissue.
Static occurs in adults when performing work that involves standing on their feet for a long time (administrator, surgeon, flight attendant, entertainer, consultant). Appears due to failure of the ligaments and muscles of the foot. It also appears in old age due to muscle atrophy, as well as in obesity and pregnancy due to increased load on the arches of the feet.

Degrees of flat feet

Insufficiency of the ligamentous apparatus. The very first stage of the disease, which manifests itself as periodic pain in the legs during the day, with increased stress, at the end of the working day. With this degree of disease, visual changes in the foot are not detected. The feet retain their original healthy looking. Brief unloading of the lower extremities quickly relieves pain.

1st degree

Weakening of the ligamentous apparatus, the foot does not change shape, pain and fatigue in the legs occur after a long walk or in the evening. After rest, pain and discomfort disappear. The gait changes and becomes less flexible.

2nd degree flat feet

The flattening of the foot is visible to the naked eye, the arches disappear, the foot is widened and flattened. The pain becomes constant and more pronounced. The pain spreads throughout ankle joint, the entire lower leg, down to the knee joint. Gait is difficult, clubfoot appears.

Flat feet 3rd degree

Third degree: characterized by complete deformation. In this case, dysfunction of the musculoskeletal system with the manifestation of corresponding diseases is diagnosed. At this stage of the development of the disease, severe pain is felt, and sports activities are impossible.

Causes

Among the main reasons provoking the development of flat feet are the following:

overweight;
pregnancy;
features of activity that cause excessive physical activity;
heredity (flat feet in close relatives);
wearing shoes of poor quality, too narrow or small shoes;
weakening of the ligaments and muscles of the feet, due to the lack of appropriate loads or age, etc.

In 90% of cases, flat feet are diagnosed in people with poorly developed muscular-ligamentous apparatus of the feet. Regular training of the foot muscles will help you avoid the occurrence of deformities and never experience flat feet.

Symptoms of flat feet in adults

Typically, a person who spends a lot of time on his feet does not notice the development of flat feet, and associates the appearance of pain and discomfort in the legs and feet with fatigue. There are several main signs by which you may suspect the development of this terrible disease in yourself.

Early signs and symptoms of flat feet:

Rapid fatigue of the legs can subsequently lead to general fatigue and chronic fatigue syndrome
Aching pain in the feet
Pain in the muscles of the thighs, legs, and lower back that occurs when moving, and then when standing, the pain goes away after a night’s sleep
Difficulties in choosing shoes
Tension in the calf muscles
Swelling
The appearance of areas of rough and thickened skin that cause discomfort when walking (corns) occurs at the base of the big toe.
Shoes begin to wear out much faster than before, mainly on the inside.
From time to time you get the feeling that your foot has increased in length, and because of this you have to buy shoes a size larger.

In advanced cases, the sacrum and lower back area hurt when walking, headaches may occur, and walking long distances is painful and painful.

Complications

Flat feet, as can be generally understood from the characteristics of the course and progression of this disease, can provoke a number of specific complications, among which we highlight the following:

a gradual increase in pain, its nonspecific manifestation (that is, pain not only in the feet, but in the hips, knees, back, headache);
clubfoot;
unnatural posture, curvature of the spine, development of scoliosis and other diseases of the spine (osteochondrosis, hernia, etc.);
ingrown nails;
dystrophic changes developing in the muscles of the back and legs;
the development of diseases directly related to damage to the feet (deformations, calluses, curvature of the fingers, neuritis, spurs, etc.).

How to determine flat feet at home?

There are proven methods for determining flat feet:

Obtaining a foot print. Take a white sheet of paper, apply some thick cream to your feet, place the paper on the floor and stand on it. It is important to stand straight and without support. Examine the print carefully. There should be a notch on the inside;
Studying the foot using the Friedland method, based on the study of the podometric index. To do this, measure the height and length of the foot, divide the height by the length and multiply by 100. Values from 29 to 31 are considered the norm.
Apply any coloring and easily washable substance to your feet, and stand on any white sheet of paper. Attention! You cannot lean during the procedure. You just need to stand straight. When viewing the resulting picture, draw a conclusion. If the entire area of the foot is painted over, then the disease definitely exists. If there is an indentation on the inside of the foot and space between the forefoot and the heel, then there is no problem with the legs.

These methods allow us to suspect the presence of pathology. But how to determine the degree of flat feet? Just for this you should contact a specialist.

Diagnostics

The diagnosis of “flat feet” is made on the basis of x-rays of the feet in 2 projections with a load (standing). Preliminary diagnosis“Flat feet” can be diagnosed by a podiatrist based on a physical examination. The correct location of the anatomical landmarks of the foot and ankle joint, the range of motion and angles of deviation of the foot, the reaction of the arches and muscles to the load, gait features, and shoe wear characteristics are determined.

Note: In women, flat feet are diagnosed 4 times more often than in men. Often, pathology develops during pregnancy due to a physiological increase in body weight.

The main methods that orthopedists use to make a diagnosis are as follows:

Radiography. Main diagnostic method, which makes it possible to determine not only the presence, but also the nature and degree of pathology, is radiography in two projections. X-ray examination is carried out with a load, i.e. the patient must stand.
Plantography. The technique for applying a fatty cream to your feet, which can be used at home, was described above. Instead of thick cream, doctors quite often use Lugol, which leaves a more accurate and distinct imprint on the paper.
Podometry. This is the measurement of various parameters of the foot and the calculation of various indices that make it possible to determine the presence of deformities and the degree of pathology.

Treatment of flat feet in adults

How to treat flat feet in adults? Flat feet seems to many to be a simple disease, but in fact it is a rather serious and rapidly progressing pathology that is difficult to correct. It can be completely cured only by childhood, and in adults, treatment of flat feet is aimed at slowing down the development of the disease to a more severe stages. The earlier flat feet are detected, the more favorable its treatment will be.

In adults, the fight against flat feet is aimed at:

withdrawal pain syndrome;
improved tone in the muscles and ligaments of the feet.

Orthopedic insoles

Good results in the treatment of flat feet in people of any age are provided by orthopedic insoles-instep supports, individually made for each foot, taking into account all anatomical features.

Such insoles are usually made of plastic, which is flexible when heated, but becomes rigid when the temperature drops. Such instep supports can be made for shoes without heels or with heels.

Wearing orthopedic insoles can completely cure flat feet in children under seven years of age if treatment begins at two to three years of age. Children need to change arch supports quite often in accordance with the growth of their feet.
In adolescents and adults, wearing insoles makes walking more comfortable and slows or stops the progression of the disease. At first, the instep supports may seem uncomfortable to wear, but as you get used to them, a feeling of comfort sets in.

Exercises

Physical exercise is an integral part of the treatment and prevention of flat feet. They help strengthen the muscles of the foot and stop the progression of the disease that has already begun. It takes at least six months to achieve lasting results. Regularity is important, otherwise there will be no effect.

It is necessary to begin treatment with gymnastics, which can be performed daily at home. Therapeutic type of gymnastics is used to achieve correction of the arch of the foot, strengthens the muscles, trains the ligamentous apparatus, and forms correct type gait There are a large number of exercises that are selected individually and depend on age, complaints, position of the foot and its shape.

A set of gymnastic exercises:

Raising on your toes. It is enough to do 10-12 repetitions. You need to start the exercise with your basic stance: your feet are parallel to one another, slightly apart.
Rolling a small elastic ball or round stick with your feet. Exercise time: 5 minutes of rolling an object with the entire surface of the foot.
Rotation. You need to sit down, stretch your legs forward, rest your heels on the floor, and alternately rotate your feet in different directions. 10 times to the right and 10 times to the left.
Walking on opposite sides of the foot. 10 steps on the outside, then 10 steps on the inside, then 20 steps changing the fulcrum on each step.
Rolls: standing from heel to toe - 10 times.
Flexion and extension of toes - 3 minutes.
Holding a small ball with your feet. Another option is to move small objects from place to place, holding them with your toes.

The whole complex takes no more than 20-30 minutes daily. After performing the exercises, it is recommended to have a massage.

Walking on uneven surfaces. The exercises are performed barefoot, each 8-12 times.

Walking barefoot on sand (you can use a box half a meter by meter for sand) or a foam rubber mat (or with a large pile), bending your toes and resting on the outer edge of the foot;
Walking on a sloped surface with support on the outer edge;
Walking sideways on a log.

It is very important that the patient performs special exercises for flat feet every day. The muscles and ligaments of the foot need to be trained constantly as a preventive measure, otherwise they weaken, and eventually symptoms of flat feet appear.

Massage for flat feet

Massage for flat feet involves the use of a large amount different techniques. These are stroking, kneading, rubbing and other methods. When massaging the foot, you need to move from the toes to the heel. Massage of the lower leg involves moving from the ankle to the knee joint. Both exercise and massage perfectly tone the muscles and ligaments of the foot. You can use special foot baths during the treatment.

The basic massage techniques for flat feet are quite simple:

you need to massage your legs from the ankles to the groin from bottom to top (stroking, patting, rubbing);
massage the foot and it back side(from fingers to ankle) should be done by rubbing, that is, with circular movements of the tips of the fingers joined together, or with the edge of the palm across the foot;
The arch of the foot can also be massaged with the “ridge”, which is formed from the joints proximal phalanges four fingers when clenching the hand into a fist (in other words, “knuckles”);
It is more convenient to rub the heels (alternately), as well as the bases of the toes on the side of the foot, with the leg bent at the knee and the four fingers of both hands connected (thumbs on the instep).

Exercises to treat flat feet should be performed for at least 20 minutes and, if possible, twice a day.

Therapeutic baths using folk remedies

It has been established that water procedures are useful for preventing disease. After a hard day at work, especially if it involves being on your feet for a long time, it is recommended to let your feet relax by placing them in a warm bath.

Based on oak bark. For half a liter of boiling water you need to add 100 g of dry matter, put on the fire for half an hour, strain and pour into a bowl of warm water.
Salt baths. You can use iodized, or better yet sea salt. One dessert spoon is dissolved in a liter of warm water and immersed in a container with a foot solution for ten minutes. Then they need to be wiped dry and massaged with hands previously lubricated with moisturizer. Such procedures improve blood circulation, help strengthen bones and are extremely relaxing.
Baths with a decoction of sage, chamomile or pine needles. Pour one glass of dried plant hot water and boil for 15-20 minutes, leave until completely cooled. Dilute ½ with hot water and soak your feet in it for about half an hour.

Prevention of flat feet

You can prevent the disease by adhering to the following rules:

Need to walk barefoot more. If possible, you should go into nature and spend a few minutes walking barefoot on grass, earth, pebbles, and pine needles.
Wearing the right shoes. This has implications for preventing the disorder in children. For them, it is necessary to buy shoes that hold the foot tightly and do not fly off or put pressure.
Exercises required from flat feet. By dedicating a few minutes a day, you can prevent the development of the disorder. You can use a massage mat as a charger. Foot massage is also necessary.
You need to pay attention to your posture and the correct position of your feet. when walking and also when standing. The feet should be almost parallel to each other and rest on the outer edges of the sole.
Homemade baths are a good preventative measure. with anti-inflammatory agents (chamomile, sage, St. John's wort). They help relieve fatigue from the legs after walking, as well as eliminate inflammation and swelling. Such baths before a massage help prepare the skin for relaxation.
Foot massage improves blood supply to the foot. At the same time, reflex points are stimulated, of which there are about 90 on the sole. General massage for the prevention of flat feet is also prescribed for children to strengthen the body’s defenses.

Transverse flatfoot is a change in the shape of the foot, characterized by drooping of its transverse arch. With this pathology, a decrease in plantar length occurs due to the fan-shaped divergence of the metatarsal bones and the displacement of the first toe outward.

Flat feet can be transverse, longitudinal and combined (combined). Most often (more than 50% of cases) transverse flatfoot occurs, sometimes in combination with other foot distortions (for example, hallux valgus or varus deformity). The orthopedic problem is mainly detected in adults, however, sometimes children and adolescents are affected by the disease.

Causes

In more than 80% of cases, flat feet are associated with weakness of the muscles of the lower leg and foot. Less commonly, the problem is caused by injury (fracture) of the bones of the foot or their weakening as a result of a disease, in particular rickets.

Weakening of muscles and ligaments leads to disruption of the uniform distribution of body weight on the plantar area, so the bones and phalanges of the lower extremities have to take on additional load. This provokes the “spreading” of the foot and over time it acquires a flattened shape.

Reasons for the development of transverse flatfoot:

hereditary tendency to weaken muscles and ligaments;
severe diseases nervous system, including cerebral palsy;
a metabolic disorder that impairs the nutrition of the musculoskeletal system;
suffering from rickets in childhood;
serious injuries to the legs (especially below the knee), as a result of which a forced step violation occurs, entailing irrational distribution of the power load;
wearing high-heeled shoes;
excessive load on lower limbs associated with obesity, heavy lifting (meaning physical work and strength sports), and frequent pregnancies.

In addition to the acquired type of the disease, congenital flatfoot in children is sometimes encountered in medical practice. The cause of this anomaly is malformations of the foot during intrauterine development.

Symptoms

As the pathological condition progresses, increasing discomfort is felt, which then transforms into pain and burning. At the beginning of the development of flat feet, a person often does not attach importance to such alarming signals as heaviness in the foot after prolonged standing, walking or physical activity. Pain usually occurs at the junction of the first and second fingers.

Progressive flat feet also entails other symptoms:

heaviness in the legs, not related to the time of day or physical activity;
swelling of the fingers, feet, ankles and/or legs varying degrees severity: a slight increase in the limb is possible, entailing, as it progresses, a smoothing of the relief of the ankle joint;
burning pain in the calf muscles, a feeling of “stoniness”;
the formation of dry, hard calluses (they are also popularly called “corns”) in places of greatest stress - on the heels, outer surface feet, toes and their pads;
Due to the increasing width of feet, many shoes become so narrow that they are difficult to fasten or even put on; During wearing there is severe discomfort and pain.

The most characteristic symptom of transverse flatfoot is the development of valgus deformity of the first toe, referred to in medicine as bursitis. This pathological condition develops due to constant mechanical irritation.

The process of development of valgus deformity in transverse flatfoot

Course of the disease	Signs
Stage 1	The finger does not move, but the skin on the side joint noticeably thickens, turns red and swells.
Stage 2	The thumb deviates to the side, the metatarsophalangeal joint continues to change: a hard and swollen formation appears on it - a “bone”.
Stage 3	The second finger, pressing and squeezing the first, also begins to deviate to the side. Over time, the second finger rises and “wraps” (lays down) behind the first. If the disease is not stopped in time, then the third and sometimes the fourth finger is involved in the pathological process.
Stage 4	Walking disorder. The patient is forced to place his foot in such a way that as little stress as possible falls on the “bone” and painful toes (the foot is placed on its side). Given the presence of transverse flatfoot, a person begins to walk like a “duck,” waddling from one leg to the other.

Find out more about the symptoms of flat feet in adults.

Diagnostics

First, the doctor examines the foot visually. Smoothing of the indentation on the sole, changes in the location of the toes, swelling and soreness of the leg are taken into account. A survey is also being conducted regarding hereditary factor, the presence of cardiovascular or rheumatic diseases.

Instrumental diagnostic methods:

geometric and topographic study of the sole: measurement of the arch of the foot from the floor (podometry), mathematical analysis of the foot print (plantography);
determining the severity of flatfoot and hallux valgus using an x-ray (the level of the deviated angle is calculated);
computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging to assess soft tissue damage.

The development of transverse flatfoot involves nearby vessels and nerve fibers in the pathological process. Given this fact, the patient is recommended additional consultation surgeon-phlebologist and neurologist.

Doctors note that the disease has become noticeably younger: if previously it mainly affected older people, now everyone more people at the age of 25-55 years old people go to the doctor with complaints of a growing “bunion”, as well as pain in the foot, fatigue and swelling of the legs.

For each patient, treatment is selected individually. Therapeutic intensity depends on the degree and severity pathological process, the presence of pain, inflammation and swelling, damage to nearby vessels, joints, tendons, nerve and muscle tissue.

Strengthening the arch of the foot

Walking barefoot can be beneficial, especially on soft soil such as beach sand. This provides a good muscle workout, helping to stop and treat the development of transverse flat feet. This procedure will be harmful only in the last stage of the problem or in the presence of certain concomitant diseases such as plantar fasciitis (pain and inflammation of the tissues connecting the palpations and the heel bone).

At home, treatment for flat feet can also be carried out by performing a set of exercises to develop muscles, the weakening of which leads to the development of this disease.

A good exercise to treat flat feet

Stand with your big toes close and your heels apart.
Rise up onto your toes, holding on to something if necessary.
Keeping your thumbs in place, slowly lower your heels, bringing them together.
Ultimately, both feet should be on the floor parallel to each other.
If this turns out to be difficult at first, then the action should be carried out alternately with each leg, and with your hands hold the tip of the big toe of the involved leg in place.

When your heels are already down and your big toes are pointing forward, you need to
bend your knees and spread them slightly without lifting your heels from the floor. When to look down kneecaps should be further than the third (middle) toe.
Repeat the entire procedure as many times as you can.

More complex and lengthy gymnastics for the treatment of transverse flatfoot are shown in the video.

Corrective therapy

Correction with the help of special medical devices is effective in the early stages of the disease. For inflammation of the metatarsophalangeal joint, bolsters are prescribed, which are placed between the first and second toes and attached to the lateral surface of the foot. This allows you to return the first finger to its anatomically correct position.

To restore the physiological bend of the foot, special insoles are prescribed that reduce the load on the ankle joint and spine and prevent the progression of the disease.

To support the foot after surgery or in severe cases of pathology, orthopedic shoes are prescribed.

Medication

Therapeutic measures are recommended to relieve inflammation and pain in muscles and joints. Medication group providing best effect– these are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) based on Indomethacin, Ketorolac, Diclofenac. Typically, the dosage form prescribed by a specialist is an ointment, gel, tablets or dragees. For unbearable pain and severe inflammation, intramuscular or intravenous injections are prescribed.

Physiotherapy and exercise therapy

This type of treatment is considered auxiliary and is usually used for 1-2 degrees of transverse flatfoot, as well as for rapid recovery (rehabilitation) after surgery. For inflammation, physiotherapy is prescribed (mud baths, UHF, electrophoresis). Purpose physical therapy is to strengthen the muscles and ligaments to naturally support the foot and prevent the progression of pathology.

Surgery

Today, surgery is considered the most effective method of restoring the anatomy of the foot. Using this method, you can eliminate the orthopedic disease and return the thumb to its natural position.

During the operation, the tendons and muscle tractions responsible for the position of the first and second toe are redistributed. This is achieved by resection of the main tendons and moving them into the desired position. Sometimes, before carrying out the above actions, partial removal of the bone fragment is performed.

Many patients want to get rid of the “bone”. This is a cosmetic operation during which only the bony growth and the subcutaneous bursa forming the enlarged joint are resected.

Prevention

In addition to the benefits of walking barefoot on sand or other crumbly soil mentioned above, it is worth noting the role of properly selected shoes for the formation of a normal arch of the foot and the prevention of transverse flat feet.

One medical research, conducted in India on a large number of children, showed a lower prevalence of flat feet in those who wore sandals and slippers compared to the group using closed shoes. It turned out that closed toes greatly inhibited the development of the arch of the foot compared to slippers or sandals.

Scientists have also found that wearing shoes throughout early childhood can be harmful to the arch of the foot. At the same time, the chances of developing transverse flatfoot increase when a child walks in stretched, worn-out shoes or ones that are larger than the size he needs.

Please note that the above recommendations are not a call for self-medication! Timely diagnosis, the correct choice of method for eliminating the disease and fulfilling all rehabilitation conditions will allow you to eliminate flat feet as quickly as possible and solve cosmetic problems associated with it.

For women, transverse flatfoot causes serious problems. When standing on their feet for a long time, they develop an excessive load on the anterior part. Weakening of the body in the fair half of humanity occurs due to menopause, frequent stressful situations. In children, the disease is rare due to the anatomical immaturity of the forefoot, and in men it is a consequence of injury.

Causes and symptoms of transverse flatfoot

Most often, transverse flatfoot occurs against the background of an imbalance of the ligamentous-muscular system. With it, some of the ligaments and muscle groups cannot fully perform their functions. As a result, one part of the foot begins to pull the other to the side. This causes the thumb to shift inward or outward.

Other causes of transverse flatfoot:

weakness of the muscular system;
rickets;
overweight;
paraplegia;
walking in non-physiological shoes;
hereditary factors;
professional activities with prolonged standing.

The most common symptoms of the disease are burning, soreness in the foot, and fatigue in the lower extremities at the end of the day. As the pathology progresses (grade 3, 4), pain occurs in the hip and knee joints even when moving without supporting the affected leg.

Symptoms are formed when the transverse arch is flattened as a result of the expansion of the foot in width in the anterior sections. At the same time, with flat feet of the 2nd or 3rd degree, valgus deviation of the big toe develops. It can be identified by external signs - a “bump” appears in the area of the metatarsophalangeal joint of the 1st finger.

If it is present, the main load is redistributed between the remaining fingers. Due to excess load, they acquire a hammer-shaped shape, which completely changes the biomechanics of the foot.

Callus and corns on the skin of the foot.

This situation negatively affects the feet of children, since their bones contain little calcium and are mostly represented by cartilage tissue. If there is excess pressure on the 2nd to 5th toes of the front part of the foot, they quickly become deformed. True, varus or valgus deformation of the thumb is not observed in children. Otherwise, the symptoms are similar to those of the disease in adults.

Frequent symptoms of flattening of the transverse arch:

swelling of the ankles;
fatigue in the evening;
pain when walking;
difficulty wearing narrow shoes;
difficulty walking.

Transverse flatfoot is otherwise called “transversely spread foot.” The definition clearly describes the essence of changes in the foot due to pathology. Due to increased pressure on the metatarsal bones, the width and length of the foot increase. These changes in the 2nd, 3rd or 4th degree of the disease are determined visually.

To prevent dangerous complications in children, parents should monitor the condition of their big toes. Timely treatment transverse flatfoot will also prevent poor posture in the spine, since these diseases are interrelated.

Transverse flatfoot in adults is also dangerous due to the asynchronous distribution of functions between the ligaments of the foot. Valgus deviation strains the ligaments of the big toe. At the same time, the articular-ligamentous apparatus of the remaining four fingers intensively contracts. The biomechanics of movement are disrupted, in which the shock-absorbing function of the foot is lost.

Signs of 1st, 2nd, 3rd degree transverse flatfoot

Flattening of the transverse arch of the 1st degree characterized by deviation of the thumb by approximately 20 degrees. This deformation leads to foot fatigue after a long walk, as well as when wearing narrow shoes. Redness and thickening skin in the area of the 2nd-5th fingers - the first sign of transverse flattening of the arch.

Transverse flatfoot 2nd degree manifested by corns and calluses in the area of the metatarsal bones. The thumb at this degree deviates approximately 20-39 degrees. A visual examination of the foot for pathology in children can identify rough skin in the forefoot.

Symptoms of pathology of the 3rd degree characterized by a thumb deflection angle of 35-39 degrees. Symptoms of the pathology manifest as unbearable pain. The load on the forefoot forms corns, as well as the development of inflammatory changes in the area of ligaments and tendons.

Flat feet in children in advanced cases can also be determined by crossing the 2nd or 3rd toes. Visually, this is accompanied by the fact that the 3rd finger is located on top of the 2nd.

However, when wearing narrow shoes, degrees of transverse flatfoot may not be characterized by typical symptoms. Thus, deviation of the 1st finger to the side leads to the rapid formation of a “bump”. Pressure on the thumb area in this case creates severe pain even when the 2nd degree of pathology occurs.

Exophyte (bone growth) of the 1st metatarsophalangeal joint, with pressure on soft tissue, quickly leads to bursitis (inflammation of the ligaments). Because of it, the soft tissues of the foot swell and cannot function fully.

In such a situation, a person leans on his middle fingers when walking, as a result of which they become deformed. Acute pain syndrome and irritability lead to disruption of a person’s psycho-emotional state. Limitation of household and labor activity forces people to seek help from orthopedic traumatologists who can correctly determine the degree of pathology and prescribe adequate treatment.

However, it is more important to treat the disease in the early stages in order to prevent dangerous complications of the pathology.

You can suspect transverse flatfoot yourself based on the following signs:

swelling of the legs in the evenings;
trampling of the sole in the areas where the pads of the metatarsal bones are located;
increased pain when wearing high-heeled shoes;
swelling of the ankles after walking.

Associated complications

The serious consequences of a flattened arch for the body lead to changes in the entire musculoskeletal system and spine.

The main complications of transverse flatfoot:

premature wear of joints (arthrosis);
diseases of the spine (osteochondrosis, hernia, scoliosis);
neurological pathology (decreased coordination of movements, Mardan's neuralgia);
painful contraction of the muscles of the lower extremities;
purulent changes in the foot;
problems with the cardiovascular system.

The cardiovascular system is affected due to varicose veins veins, which is formed when the transverse arch is flattened.

How to cure transverse flatfoot in children and adults

Treatment of transverse flattening of the foot requires careful diagnosis of the cause of the disease, especially in children. When the pathology is neglected, poor posture and scoliosis (displacement of the spinal axis) occur.

The disease of the 1st and 2nd degrees can be cured using conservative methods. They involve a set of measures that are designed to normalize the biomechanics of the foot.

One of important ways treatment is wearing orthopedic shoes. This allows you to maintain the physiological arch. Over time, the muscles and ligaments of the foot get used to the insoles. Thus, it is possible to correctly distribute the load on the sole.

Physiotherapeutic procedures are used to eliminate swelling and pain in the sole area. The use of anti-inflammatory and painkillers in the form of ointments and systemic drugs can alleviate the condition. These drugs also effectively treat complications of pathology in the form of arthrosis and bursitis.

Foot massage helps normalize its blood supply and restore physiological innervation.

Surgical treatment methods

Surgical procedures are performed for stage 3 or 4 disease. With them bone spurs(osteophytes, exostoses) compress the surrounding tissues, interfering with the biomechanics of the foot. Severe pain in this case, they arise due to compression of the nerve fibers.

Surgical techniques also help to minimize the consequences of inflammatory changes in the sole. When entering the foot, surgeons must drain the cavities and antiseptically treat the tissue.

Typically, surgery is performed when conservative methods do not bring relief. To restore the normal position of the 1st finger, special surgical procedures. For example, valgus deviation is eliminated by Shede's operation.

Surgery on the ligaments and bones of the foot is required not only to remove exostosis, but also to restore damaged tissue. To eliminate parts of the “bone” (exostosis) on the big toe, excision of the ligaments that are attached to it is often required.

Damaged tissues are stitched together after surgery with special threads, and in case of severe damage they are replaced with artificial implants.

Surgical intervention is carried out taking into account pathological changes in the foot.

Hollow forefoot characterized by an increase in the longitudinal arch in the forward direction due to the lowering of the metatarsal bones downwards. For the most part, the hollow foot (pes cavus anterior) appears due to hallux valgus.

Hind hollow foot formed by increasing the longitudinal part in the rear direction. It occurs due to the prolapse of the tarsal bones and the tuberosity of the heel bone. Surgery in this case, it eliminates varus deformation and curvature of the arch.

In both cases postoperative period lasts for 2-3 months. Only after it can people walk.

Thus, it is better to detect transverse flatfoot in time. This will prevent serious complications. In advanced cases, you will have to resort to surgical methods.

Flat feet is a deformation of the joints of the foot, when the relief of its surface decreases and flattens.

This pathology affects both the foot itself and the entire human musculoskeletal system. As is known, the presence of flat feet is the reason for a young man not to be accepted into the army. For this reason and not only everyone should know the symptoms of transverse flatfoot.

Not everyone knows that pathology comes in several varieties: longitudinal, transverse, combined (longitudinal-transverse).

Brief anatomy

But do not forget that nature has taken everything into account to lighten the load: it has created our foot with an uneven plantar part, due to which the weight is distributed evenly while walking. The surface of the foot has curves, which in anatomy are called arches. Each foot has 3 arches - external, internal longitudinal and transverse. The latter consists of the tarsal bones, 5 metatarsal heads.

In the presence of flat feet, there is a decrease in the rise of the arch of the foot, this contributes to the deformation of its shape and the entire ligamentous apparatus.

What causes transverse flat feet?

Transverse flatfoot can be acquired or congenital, it all depends on the causes of its occurrence. A congenital disease, as a rule, appears as a result of a failure in the development of the bones of the foot or underdevelopment of the fixing aponeuroses or ligaments. This is facilitated by genetic predisposition. It is known that the foot is considered fully formed at the age of 6 years, therefore all injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system are a concomitant factor for the occurrence of flat feet of any type.

As for the transverse, it develops in the flatness (expansion) of the front part of the foot. In this case, while walking, the emphasis is on all the heads that are in the metatarsal bones.
According to statistics, the transverse type of acquired disease mainly develops in adults from 30 to 55 years old.

Common causes of acquired flat feet:

load on the feet when walking long distances, carrying and lifting heavy objects;
staying in a static position;
excess weight;
deformation of the bone structure - osteoporosis;
inflammatory diseases that affect the musculoskeletal system - gout, rheumatoid arthritis, rheumatism;
diabetes;
damage to the foot - rupture of muscles, tendons, fascia, bone fracture;
deformation of ligaments and muscles associated with age-related changes;
flat feet caused by paralysis of the legs, damage to the spinal cord or brain - spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, stroke;
during pregnancy due to weight gain and hormonal changes.

However, practice shows that the most common cause of transverse flat feet is uncomfortable shoes with high heels and flat soles. The latter leads to a decrease in the level of all arches of the feet as a result of the fact that during loading the bones of the foot begin to diverge in different directions. As for the heel, the load on the forefoot (transverse arch) increases, because of this they begin to diverge. According to statistics, 76% of women suffering from acquired flat feet wear high heels.

Symptoms

Signs of transverse flatfoot:

a feeling of heaviness and pain in the limbs, with symptoms intensifying while walking;
feeling of fatigue throughout the body, even after short distances;
feet begin to swell;
calluses and abrasions form at the base of the fingers;
in some cases it is difficult for a person to stand on his toes.

The lowering of the front part helps to reduce the size of the foot in the anteroposterior (longitudinal) direction, and at the same time the height of the transverse arch increases. At this moment, the weight distribution shifts to the feet. In adults with healthy feet, the load is placed on 1 bone. If a person has transverse flat feet, the weight is distributed in the middle.

At this time, the height of other bones increases, which leads to deformation of the 2nd and 3rd fingers - hammertoe, coracoid. At the same time, the finger begins to deviate to the side. Sometimes it is so obvious that the first finger overlaps the second. This pathology is characterized by the fact that at the beginning of 1 finger a growth of cartilage tissue appears, which is why a lump is formed. When making a diagnosis, the orthopedist pays attention to the angle of deviation, and the stronger it is, the more advanced the stage of the disease. In humans, an angle of 150 degrees is considered normal.

The degree of flatfoot is determined by the violation of the angle:

The initial stage, when the angle does not exceed 200 degrees.
Stage 2 - 200-400.
Stage 3, when the angle is above 400 degrees.

Deformation of the feet contributes to the load on the entire musculoskeletal system, ankle, knee joint, lower leg. In the future, this problem leads to the occurrence of osteochondrosis and arthrosis of the joints.

Treatment of transverse flatfoot

Treatment of flat feet is carried out in two ways - conservative and surgical. Unfortunately, it is impossible to cure this disease. Exercise therapy, therapeutic exercises and other methods are needed to relieve symptoms and prevent the progression of the disease. It is permissible to treat pathology with conservative methods only at stages 1 and 2.

Conservative treatment includes:

performing a massage course;
carrying out exercise therapy;
use of traditional medicine;
use of orthopedic products (insoles, mats).

As exercise, orthopedists recommend walking alternately on the heels and on the front of the foot, on the outer and inner sides, rolling from toe to heel, and so on several times. An exercise is considered useful when pencils are scattered on the floor and you need to lift them with your fingers. In a sitting position, you should extend and bend your fingers.

This way you can increase muscle tone and strengthen the ligaments of your feet and legs. Massage of the feet and legs leads to the same effect; it can be performed at home, but before this the patient should consult with a massage therapist and orthopedist.

Orthopedic devices for the treatment of flat feet

This type of disease at an early stage with slight deformation of bone tissue and ligaments can be easily supported with the help of orthopedic products. It is important to understand that choosing the wrong insoles or bolster can make the situation worse. Therefore, they should be prescribed by a doctor, taking into account the individual characteristics of the curvature of the feet.

Popular products

Rollers, they are used as a liner between fingers (1 and 2). They help to move 1 finger in the desired direction.

Insoles, they must be orthopedic, are made to order after taking measurements. Insoles promote recovery correct form feet, and also reduce the load on the hip and knee joints when walking.

Orthopedic shoes are needed when the disease is severe, and they are also worn after surgery.

Medicines for flat feet

Such drugs are used to relieve pain and get rid of inflammation of the joint on the big toe. For this, doctors prescribe NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), often Ketanov, Diclofenac, Indomethacin.

It is important to understand that independent choice of drugs of this type can lead to undesirable consequences. The reason is that these medications are divided into different groups and have a number of contraindications and side effects. The doctor prescribes them only after an examination, when there are no conditions in the body that can be aggravated by taking such drugs.

Surgery

Surgery for transverse flatfoot is permissible only at the last stage of the disease. Surgeons fix and correct the bones of the transverse arch, remove overgrown cartilage and perform plastic surgery of the ligamentous apparatus.

Prevention measures

In order to prevent the occurrence of the disease, there are a number of simple rules, which should be followed from childhood. Parents should monitor the child's gait and teach him not to spread his legs to the sides when walking, since this increases the pressure on the ligaments and muscles of the inside of the feet. Buy shoes where the heel height does not exceed 6 cm. For those who have a genetic predisposition, do not spend a lot of time in the same position, in particular, this applies to work.

To provide your feet with proper rest after a hard day, this can be done using foot baths with warm water. After this, it is recommended to walk alternately on the inner and outer edges of the feet for a couple of minutes. Place special insoles in your shoes that have orthopedic insoles, but in order to choose them correctly, it is better to consult with an orthopedist.

IN warm time years to walk barefoot on a relief surface. While in the house, periodically walk on the inside and outside of your feet, as well as on your heels and toes.

Monitor weight gain, since obesity often leads to the development of transverse flat feet. This is especially true for pregnant women.

If a person notices the first signs of transverse flatfoot, he needs to be diagnosed. To do this, you should contact an orthopedist who can make a diagnosis and prescribe treatment if necessary.

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Reasons for the development of transverse flatfoot:

hereditary tendency to weaken muscles and ligaments;
severe diseases of the nervous system, including cerebral palsy;
a metabolic disorder that impairs the nutrition of the musculoskeletal system;
suffering from rickets in childhood;
serious injuries to the legs (especially below the knee), as a result of which a forced step violation occurs, entailing irrational distribution of the power load;
wearing high-heeled shoes;
excessive load on the lower limbs associated with obesity, heavy lifting (meaning physical work and strength sports), frequent pregnancies.

Progressive flat feet also entails other symptoms:

heaviness in the legs, not related to the time of day or physical activity;
swelling of the fingers, feet, ankles and/or lower legs of varying severity: a slight increase in the limb is possible, resulting in a smoothing of the relief of the ankle joint as it progresses;
burning pain in the calf muscles, a feeling of “stoniness”;
the formation of dry, hard calluses (they are also popularly called “corns”) in places of greatest stress - on the heels, the outer surface of the foot, toes and their pads;
Due to the increasing width of feet, many shoes become so narrow that they are difficult to fasten or even put on; During wearing there is severe discomfort and pain.

The process of development of valgus deformity in transverse flatfoot

First, the doctor examines the foot visually. Smoothing of the indentation on the sole, changes in the location of the toes, swelling and soreness of the leg are taken into account. A survey is also conducted regarding hereditary factors, the presence of cardiovascular or rheumatic diseases.

Instrumental diagnostic methods:

geometric and topographic study of the sole: measurement of the arch of the foot from the floor (podometry), mathematical analysis of the foot print (plantography);
determining the severity of flatfoot and hallux valgus using an x-ray (the level of the deviated angle is calculated);
computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging to assess soft tissue damage.

The development of transverse flatfoot involves nearby vessels and nerve fibers in the pathological process. Considering this fact, the patient is recommended to have additional consultation with a phlebologist and neurologist.

Doctors note that the disease has become noticeably younger: if previously it mainly affected older people, now more and more people aged 25-55 are turning to the doctor with complaints about a growing “bone”, as well as pain in the foot, fatigue and swelling of the legs.

For each patient, treatment is selected individually. Therapeutic intensity depends on the degree and severity of the pathological process, the presence of pain, inflammation and swelling, damage to nearby vessels, joints, tendons, nerve and muscle tissues.

Strengthening the arch of the foot

At home, treatment for flat feet can also be carried out by performing a set of exercises to develop muscles, the weakening of which leads to the development of this disease.

A good exercise to treat flat feet

Stand with your big toes close and your heels apart.
Rise up onto your toes, holding on to something if necessary.
Keeping your thumbs in place, slowly lower your heels, bringing them together.
Ultimately, both feet should be on the floor parallel to each other.
If this turns out to be difficult at first, then the action should be carried out alternately with each leg, and with your hands hold the tip of the big toe of the involved leg in place.

When your heels are already down and your big toes are pointing forward, you need to
bend your knees and spread them slightly without lifting your heels from the floor. When looking down, your kneecaps should be further than your third (middle) toe.
Repeat the entire procedure as many times as you can.

More complex and lengthy gymnastics for the treatment of transverse flatfoot are shown in the video.

Corrective therapy

To restore the physiological bend of the foot, special insoles are prescribed that reduce the load on the ankle joint and spine and prevent the progression of the disease.

To support the foot after surgery or in severe cases of pathology, orthopedic shoes are prescribed.

Medication

Therapeutic measures are recommended to relieve inflammation and pain in muscles and joints. The medication group that has the best effect is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) based on Indomethacin, Ketorolac, Diclofenac. Typically, the dosage form prescribed by a specialist is an ointment, gel, tablets or dragees. For unbearable pain and severe inflammation, intramuscular or intravenous injections are prescribed.

Physiotherapy and exercise therapy

This type of treatment is considered auxiliary and is usually used for 1-2 degrees of transverse flatfoot, as well as for rapid recovery (rehabilitation) after surgery. For inflammation, physiotherapy is prescribed (mud baths, UHF, electrophoresis). The goal of physical therapy is to strengthen the muscles and ligaments to naturally support the foot and prevent the progression of pathology.

Surgery

Today, surgery is considered the most effective method of restoring the anatomy of the foot. Using this method, you can eliminate the orthopedic disease and return the thumb to its natural position.

Many patients want to get rid of the “bone”. This is a cosmetic operation during which only the bony growth and the subcutaneous bursa forming the enlarged joint are resected.

Prevention

One medical study conducted in India on a large number of children found a lower prevalence of flat feet in those who wore sandals and slippers compared to the group wearing closed shoes. It turned out that closed toes greatly inhibited the development of the arch of the foot compared to slippers or sandals.

Please note that the above recommendations are not a call for self-medication! Timely diagnosis, the correct choice of method for eliminating the disease and fulfillment of all rehabilitation conditions will allow flat feet to be eliminated as quickly as possible and cosmetic problems associated with it to be resolved.

Transverse flatfoot– a widespread pathology in which there is a transverse spreading of the foot and deviation of the first toe outward. The main cause of transverse flatfoot is insufficiency of the ligamentous apparatus of the foot. Along with external deformation, it manifests itself as pain in the feet, pain and burning in the muscles of the feet and legs after physical activity. The diagnosis is made on the basis of radiography. Symptomatic conservative therapy is carried out; in case of severe deformity, corrective operations are performed.

Transverse flatfoot

Transverse flatfoot is a pathological condition in which the forefoot is flattened and the first toe deviates outward. The pathology is widespread, women suffer about 20 times more often than men. It is usually detected in middle-aged and elderly women, less common in men (usually elderly), and in some cases found in children and adolescents. In traumatology and orthopedics, a combination of transverse and longitudinal flatfoot is often observed - combined flatfoot.

Usually accompanied by more or less severe pain, heaviness in the feet and fatigue when walking. Over time, stiffness of the metatarsophalangeal joints and progressive deformities in the area of the first and second fingers occur. The reason for visiting a doctor, along with pain, is often a pronounced cosmetic defect and problems in choosing comfortable shoes. Treatment of transverse flatfoot is carried out by traumatologists and orthopedists.

Causes and mechanism of development of transverse flatfoot

Transverse flatfoot is a polyetiological disease that occurs under the influence various factors, which include uncomfortable narrow shoes, high heels, prolonged standing, excess weight, previous foot injuries, etc. However, the main reason for the formation of transverse flatfoot is congenital weakness of the ligamentous apparatus of the feet. Currently this pathology is considered as an irreversible deformity that cannot be corrected by conservative methods, since there are no medications or orthopedic devices that can affect the restoration of the tone and strength of the connective tissue formations of the foot.

Normally, the metatarsals are held in their anatomically correct position by the interosseous fascia and plantar aponeurosis. When the listed connective tissue structures are weak, in 30% of cases all metatarsal bones fan out. In 27% of cases, there is a deviation of the first metatarsal bone to the medial side, while the remaining metatarsal bones maintain a normal position. In 5-6% of cases, the diameter of the foot increases due to the deviation of the V and IV metatarsal bones. In other cases, combinations of the above options are observed.

Deviation of the metatarsal bones is not the only pathological change that occurs with transverse flatfoot. The first metatarsal bone often rotates around its axis and rises. A redistribution of the load occurs: the first metatarsophalangeal joint becomes poorly supported, and the outer parts of the foot constantly suffer from overload. Due to changes in the normal relationships between the elements of the foot and the traction of the muscles, the first toe “goes” outward. The first metatarsophalangeal joint is deformed.

A “bone” forms on the inner surface of the foot, which can be either an exostosis (an osteochondral growth) or a combination of exostosis with a protruding, curved first metatarsophalangeal joint. Due to excessive shoe pressure on the first metatarsal bone, bursitis occurs in the joint area, accompanied by local swelling and redness of the skin. Arthrosis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint develops, which causes increased pain. The range of motion in the joint decreases.

The curved 1st finger “enters” the 2nd finger. Over time, a hammertoe deformity of the second, or less often of the II-III, fingers often develops, and corns form on the plantar surface. The metatarsophalangeal joints “go” into a state of subluxation. All of the above causes intense pain, creates severe inconvenience when wearing regular and sometimes orthopedic shoes, and leads to forced limitation of mobility and ability to work.

Symptoms of transverse flatfoot

Patients with transverse flatfoot complain of aching, pulling, stabbing or burning pain in the feet, mainly in the area of the I-II metatarsophalangeal joints. The pain intensifies after prolonged standing and may be accompanied by a feeling of heaviness in the feet and a burning sensation in the muscles. In the evening, swelling of the feet and ankles may occur. Patients note significant difficulties when walking in high heels, as well as problems when choosing shoes - the foot becomes too wide and does not fit into standard shoes.

The hallux valgus deformity of the first finger (Hallux valgus) is visually determined. The forefoot is widened. In advanced cases, a hammer-shaped curvature of the II-III fingers is detected. The skin in the area of the first metatarsophalangeal joint is thickened and hyperemic. Corns and calluses are visible on the inner and plantar surfaces of the forefoot. The range of motion in the metatarsophalangeal joints is limited. Pain may occur on palpation.

Diagnosis of transverse flatfoot

The diagnosis of transverse flatfoot is made on the basis of external examination and X-ray results of the foot. To obtain a complete picture of the disease, radiography of the I, II and III metatarsophalangeal joints is usually prescribed. In the process of describing the images, the radiologist assesses the severity of valgus deformity of the first toe, taking into account the angle between the first toe and the second metatarsal bone and the angle between the first and second metatarsal bones. There are three degrees of deformation:

1st degree– the angle between the first toe and the second metatarsal bone does not exceed 25 degrees, the angle between the first and second metatarsal bones does not exceed 12 degrees.
2nd degree- the angle between the first toe and the second metatarsal bone does not exceed 35 degrees, the angle between the first and second metatarsal bones does not exceed 18 degrees.
3rd degree- the angle between the first toe and the second metatarsal bone exceeds 35 degrees, the angle between the first and second metatarsal bones exceeds 18 degrees.

In addition, when studying radiographs, attention is paid to the presence of arthrosis, which is evidenced by deformation of the articular platform, narrowing of the joint space, osteosclerosis of the subchondral zone and marginal growths. If necessary, for a detailed study of the dense structures of the foot, the patient is sent to a bone CT scan, and to assess the condition of the soft tissues - to an MRI. If there is a concomitant pathology of the nervous or venous system, consultations with a phlebologist and neurologist are prescribed.

Treatment of transverse flatfoot

Treatment tactics are determined depending on the severity of the pathology, the intensity of the pain syndrome and the patient’s cosmetic needs. It is worth noting that modern medicine There are no known non-surgical methods for eliminating deformity of the first metatarsophalangeal joint, and all proposals to “remove the bone without surgery” are just advertising gimmicks. Conservative therapy for transverse flatfoot is aimed at reducing pain and slowing the progression of the disease.

In the early stages, patients are recommended to wear interdigital pads and custom orthotics. For severe deformations, make orthopedic shoes according to individual standards in accordance with the recommendations of the orthopedic surgeon. In addition, massage, foot baths, a special set of exercises to strengthen the muscles and ligaments of the foot, as well as physiotherapeutic procedures are prescribed: magnetic therapy, UHF, electrophoresis with trimecaine or novocaine, phonophoresis with hydrocortisone, inductothermy, paraffin and ozokerite. For pain and signs of inflammation, local and general NSAIDs are recommended.

Surgeries are performed for severe foot deformities and intense pain. The reason for surgical intervention in young women is often a cosmetic defect with moderate valgus deformity of the first finger. Depending on the characteristics of the pathology, surgical interventions on soft tissues, on bones, as well as combined interventions on soft tissues and bones are used. Treatment is carried out after the necessary examination, as planned, in an orthopedic or trauma department.

During operations on soft tissues, tendons are cut off or moved to restore uniform traction of the muscles that abduct and adduct the first finger. Palliative interventions that eliminate external deformity, but do not affect the defective position of the first metatarsal bone, include excision of the subcutaneous bursa and exostosis in the area of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Such operations can reduce cosmetic defects and make it easier to use standard shoes, but over time their effect often disappears due to further progression of the deformity.

In order to eliminate the inward deviation of the first metatarsal bone, Scarf osteotomy or chevron osteotomy is currently usually used - operations during which the orthopedist removes a fragment of the bone and restores its anatomically correct position. After surgery, special orthoses are used for 6 weeks. Subsequently, the patient is advised not to overload the foot, wear comfortable wide shoes, do self-massage and perform special exercises to strengthen the muscles of the foot.

The human foot includes ligaments and tendons, small bones and joints in its structure. All this many remaining parts are inextricably linked by performing a single function for a person - support and the ability to walk and move. Wrong choice of shoes, excess load from the weight of an obese person, various injuries disrupt the balance of the joints of the foot, which disrupts the position of small bones, and the anatomical arches of the foot become flatter.

Transverse flatfoot: symptoms and treatment, photo

Flat feet are an acquired disease that impairs the mechanics of walking. The structure of the foot has transverse and longitudinal arches. Flat feet lead to changes in the spine, changing the load on the hips and knees. With flat feet of the transverse type, the arch of the foot becomes flatter, and a so-called “bump” is formed next to the big toe - the main symptom of transverse flatfoot, the treatment of which can be seen in the “before” and “after” photos.

Foot diseases mainly affect women aged 30-50 who are overweight, which causes the foot to become shorter and its instep to decrease.

Transverse flatfoot expands the foot, leading to the growth of bones and cartilaginous joints. Most of the load rests on the arch of the foot, and when the bones supporting the arch are flattened, the supporting “bone” moves forward. The risk group for this disease includes women and men aged 35-55 years, with excessive obesity. A treatment plan for the symptoms of transverse flatfoot is drawn up based on a photo, which makes a special device of a person standing below.

Transverse flatfoot: causes

Some factors, which are called among the main ones in determining transverse flatfoot, can be found in any medical manual, which contains many photographs of the disease and describes the treatment of symptoms of transverse flatfoot in adults.

The main reasons always include:

hereditary disposition. Flat feet are a congenital pathology that occurs due to genetically transmitted weakness of the muscles that support the arch bones of the arch of the foot. With a balanced diet, calculated physical activity, and the purchase of good shoes, flat feet of this type do not cause concern;
imbalance in the formation of muscle and ligament systems in the structure of the foot. On a healthy leg, the toes are located almost parallel. With the slightest imbalance in the muscular and ligamentous apparatus, the fingers are arranged in a fan-shape - a sure sign of transverse flatfoot;
excess body weight. The arch of the foot, a complex of small bones, muscles, and ligaments, is designed to bear a certain load. When weight exceeds physiological standards, the foot slowly but persistently becomes flatter. This happens among workers with “standing” and physical activity. In this case, acquired flatfoot is an occupational pathology;
foot injuries – common reasons flat feet in representatives of the stronger sex. Dislocations of the ankle joint, cracks in the heel bone disrupt the functions of the foot and provoke the progression of flat feet;
A common factor in the formation of acquired flat feet is wearing high-heeled shoes or shoes with uncomfortable lasts.

It is walking in heels and the inheritance of a predisposition to flat feet along the female family line that gives a high incidence of the disease in women and a low incidence of diseases among men - in a ratio of 8:2.

Symptoms of transverse flatfoot

Periodic development of corns on the forefoot - a clear sign that flat feet are beginning. They should pay due attention and monitor their condition to look for other signs of the disease:

discomfort in movements;
on the feet - pain and burning;
heaviness in the feet after long movements or, conversely, after a static load.

The main symptom is pain between the 1st and 2nd fingers. Already with these symptoms, you can go to see an orthopedist in order to start treatment on time and prevent the progression of the disease.

If, however, flat feet progresses, other signs show this:

general heaviness in the feet at any time of the day, regardless of load;
swelling in the feet, fingers, ankles;
development of hard calluses – “corns”;
inability to wear shoes due to enlarged feet.

Corns form in the place where the leg receives the greatest load; based on their appearance, you can analyze your motor activity and adjust the degree of load. When surgery is required to treat the symptoms of transverse flatfoot, you can see in the photo that a person is prevented from walking and moving by a “bone”, due to the pain of which he cannot wear practically any shoes.

Diagnosis and treatment of transverse flatfoot

Flat feet of one type or another are diagnosed by an orthopedist or traumatologist during an examination, which is carried out on a glass stand with backlight, with the ability to make an imprint of the feet and photographs of them. Such a simple device reveals the type of disorder and the level of development of the disease. After the examination, the doctor prescribes a treatment method appropriate to the type of pathology or decides on the need for surgical intervention.

Used for treatment A complex approach. With both transverse and longitudinal flatfoot in adults, the symptoms and treatment are almost the same, the difference is visible only in photographs and X-rays showing the displacement of the bones and the development of disorders in the structure of the foot.

Traditional treatment requires:

reduce the load on the foot;
wear orthopedic shoes;
wear orthopedic insoles and gel inserts;
lose weight;
drug treatment;
physiotherapy;
massage.

All procedures are used only as prescribed by a doctor. At home, you can add foot baths and compresses with a cooling effect with mint and menthol.

The mechanism of pathology development

The metatarsal bones of the feet are connected to each other into a strong frame. With transverse flatfoot, the fascia and tendons that support the arch are stretched. The load increases and the bones move apart. As a result, the foot becomes wider and flattens.

The disease is often acquired. But sometimes it develops against the background of hereditary weakness of muscles and ligaments. The main causes of transverse flatfoot:

uncomfortable shoes;
overweight;
leg injuries;
bone diseases;
standing or heavy lifting work.

In women, lovers of high heels and expectant mothers are also at risk. Among men, fans of flat-soled sneakers and professional athletes are more likely to suffer.

With transverse flatfoot, external changes can be noticed only at the second stage. During this period, the height of the arch is already significantly reduced, and the foot begins to expand.

The uneven distribution of the load is noticeable in the wear pattern of the shoes. Its inner edge wears down noticeably faster. Sometimes this is one of the first signs of pathology. If you look at a photo of transverse flatfoot in later stages, you can see:

complete absence of gap between the feet and the floor;
deviation of the angle of the calcaneus;
deformation of toes;
signs of phalangeal subluxations;
calluses and corns;
inflammation of the bone on the big toe.

In advanced cases, transverse flatfoot can cause scoliosis and arthrosis.

Symptoms and stages

First clinical manifestations Illness is often mistaken for fatigue. There is an aching pain in the legs that goes away after rest. Further symptoms of transverse flatfoot depend on the stage of the pathology.

Most often it goes unnoticed. But short-term pain in the feet and evening fatigue in the legs may occur. X-ray, made during this period, reveals a pathological angle of inclination of the phalanx of the thumb (up to 20 degrees). This does not cause discomfort and does not interfere with walking.

Conservative treatment of transverse flatfoot in adults is possible only at the first stage.

The flattening of the foot causes the first toe to become deformed by up to 35 degrees. The second degree of flatfoot is clearly visible when placing your feet on a flat surface. The pain intensifies and becomes more intense. Cramps in the calf muscles may occur. It is no longer possible to cure the disease at this stage. But complications can be prevented and progression stopped.

Severe degree with persistent disorders in the feet and musculoskeletal system. Reducing the arch to 15 mm and below causes disturbances in the spring functions of the feet. Even normal walking at this stage causes pain in the legs, back, shoulder blades and neck. In the future, the disease becomes the cause of serious joint pathologies and can lead to disability.

Correction of the third degree of transverse flatfoot is carried out only surgically with lifelong wearing of orthopedic shoes.

Only by establishing the stage of the disease can one determine how to treat transverse flatfoot in adults. More often, therapy consists of the use of orthopedic complexes, physical education and massage courses. These procedures are aimed at restoring the elasticity of ligaments and muscles.

They cannot completely correct the deformity, but they significantly improve the quality of life and prevent complications. Good action Physiotherapeutic procedures using hardware and thermal treatment are also provided to the feet.

For this type of flatfoot, the procedure is used to strengthen the transverse group of ligaments of the foot, reduce pain and improve nutrition in the tissues. You can do the massage yourself or with an assistant. The following methods are used for treatment:

superficial and deep stroking;
rubbing with the edge of the palm and fingers (spiral, straight);
kneading (squeezing, squeezing, pulling);
vibration (from fingertips or palms).

Features of the event

Massage is indicated at any stage of transverse flatfoot. It is done even after surgery. The procedure is carried out every day. Duration up to 20 days, number of courses at least 4 per year.

Subsequence

Start the massage from the back. First light stroking, then rubbing, kneading and vibration. You definitely need to iron it at the end. In the same way they affect:

buttocks;
all sides of the thighs and legs;
ankles;
Feet;
soles;
fingers.

Particular attention should be paid to the transverse ligaments of the foot and the big toe area. After the massage, it is recommended to perform a set of exercises.

Physiotherapy

With the help of gymnastics, you can treat transverse flat feet at home. Immediately after getting up, it is useful to walk on an orthopedic mat or pedal an exercise bike. After light massage carry out the following exercises:

alternate tension and relaxation of the feet;
rolling from toe to heel;
turning the feet with the soles facing each other;
walking sideways on a gymnastic bar;
lifting objects from the floor and holding them with your feet;
standing on one leg with the sole of the opposite knee touching;
walking on toes, heel areas and outer edges of the foot.

To improve the effect, you need to include pool exercises in your schedule at least 3 times a week. Skiing and cycling have a good effect on the elasticity of the transverse ligaments.

Orthopedic devices

Treatment of transverse flatfoot will not bring results without the use of corrective devices and special shoes. They are designed to maintain normal foot arches. This prevents further deformation of the foot, improves blood circulation and relieves pain. Shoes to support the transverse ligaments have a rigid frame, a high heel and an orthopedic insole with several support points. It helps keep the heel angles in a physiological position.

Surgical correction of feet is indicated for grades 2 and 3 transverse flatfoot in adults. During the intervention, bone growths are removed, joints are positioned correctly, and ligaments are shortened.

Alternative medicine

Folk remedies for transverse flatfoot can only affect the symptoms. They effectively relieve pain and eliminate inflammation in the area of corns and calluses. Popular recipes include:

Acid compress. Mix the juice of half a lemon with two aspirin tablets, add a teaspoon of any oil. Apply to feet and cover with film for 40 minutes. Repeat after 2 days. Course of 7 procedures.
Herbal lotions. Prepare a decoction of sage, mint, calendula and linden. Take a tablespoon of all plants per liter of water. Apply wipes with the solution to your feet for 30 minutes every day. Course of up to 10 procedures. Repeat as necessary.
Salt baths. Dissolve sea or regular salt in water (two tablespoons per liter). Feet stand in medicinal mixture, down to the ankle. Exposure time 15 minutes. Repeat every other day until signs of inflammation and pain disappear.
Homemade ointments. Prepared on the basis of pharmaceutical bile, tar, turpentine or pepper. An indispensable condition is the addition of fats to the ointment. This will prevent burns. Can be applied every day for 1 or 2 hours, depending on skin sensitivity.
Clay or honey wraps. The components are applied to the foot area without a napkin and left for 30 minutes. If clay is used, it is pre-wetted.

Folk remedies should not be used without consulting a doctor during pregnancy and a tendency to allergic reactions.

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