Flat feet and knee pain are often overlooked causes of knee discomfort. When people experience knee pain, they often blame it on injuries, aging or excessive physical activity, but do we really know the real reason behind it? The real reason behind it can also be something as simple as the shape of your feet. Yes, Flat Feet can be a major cause behind the constant knee pain or knee injuries. Dr. Preetesh Choudhary, top orthopedic doctor will guide you through the link between flat feet and knee pain, its causes and treatment options. 

What is Flat Feet?

Flat feet also known as fallen arches occur when the arches of the feet collapse and fall, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. While some people are born with it, others may develop it over time due to factors like aging, obesity, knee injuries or improper footwear.

How are flat feet and knee pain connected?

Our feet are considered to be the foundation of our body. When they are not aligned properly, it affects the knees, hips and even the spine. The connection between flat feet and knee pain is strong and here are the top reasons how flat feet contribute to knee discomfort-

• Shock Absorption-

Normal foot arches act like natural shock absorbers whereas people suffering from flat feet have poor shock absorbing capacity. When a person walks or runs, foot arches distribute their body weight evenly but when a person with flat feet walks or runs, there is no proper arch support which can lead to increased stress on the knees and joints eventually causing pain.

• Risk of Knee Injury-

Since flat feet affect the walking posture of a person, they can increase the strain on the tendons and ligaments in the knee. Over time this can lead to ligament injuries, such as ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) strain or meniscus tears. If such types of knee injuries are left untreated, then these injuries may require knee pain treatment by knee specialists.

• Misalignment of the Knees-

Flat feet can change the knee alignment of your legs which can cause a condition like Knee Valgus or Knock Knees in which the knees to tilt inward. This improper alignment increases the risk of ligament injuries and conditions like Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS), which leads to pain around the kneecap.

• Risk of Osteoarthritis-

Flat Feet can contribute to wear and tear of the knee cartilage which then eventually lead to early symptoms of Osteoarthritis.The continuous strain on the knee joints can cause cartilage breakdown, resulting in stiffness, swelling, and chronic knee pain.

Treatment for Knee Pain caused by Flat Feet-

If you are the one who is suffering from constant knee pain and know that flat feet is the cause behind it then by following these steps you can prevent long-term damage-

• Exercises For Flat Feet-

There are several exercises for flat feet that improve strength, flexibility, provide relief and help in improving foot posture. Few exercises for flat feet are Arch Raises, Toe Curls, Calf Stretches, Heel Walks etc. If these feet exercises are performed regularly for a few minutes then it will correct foot posture and reduce knee pain. 

• Choosing the Best Shoes-

Wearing the right shoes can make a huge difference in managing knee pain caused by flat feet. When you buy shoes, look for arch support, cushioned soled, motion controlled features and Custom Orthotics which help in proper weight distribution, reduced impact on the knees, prevention in inward rolling of feet and provides extra support. 

• Consulting an Orthopaedic-

If you are the one who is suffering from constant knee pain due to Flat Feet then it’s time for you to consult a Knee Injury Specialist like Dr. Preetesh Choudhary. He has successfully treated numerous patients who had suffered from knee pain caused by flat feet. His expertise in ligament injury treatment ensures that you receive the best care possible.

Conclusion-

Flat feet can have a significant impact on your knees, posture and overall mobility. Flat Feet and knee pain often go hand in hand, but the good news is that with the right approach and expert guidance you can prevent long-term knee damage and enjoy a pain-free life. If you are experiencing persistent knee pain then do not ignore the symptoms and consult Dr. Preetesh Choudhary at MLs Clinic, which is a renowned Orthopedic clinic for a comprehensive assessment, knee pain and ligament injury treatment.