Adult Acquired Flatfoot

Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, also known as adult acquired flatfoot deformity, is a common cause of pain and flattening of the arch of the foot. It tends to occur with age. The posterior tibial tendon is a large and very important tendon on the medial or inner side of the ankle. It supports the arch and inverts the foot. Tendinitis or dysfunction is caused by repetitive irritation that occurs with walking and weight bearing.  Left untreated, this condition can worsen over time, causing pain and deformity (a very flat foot).  It usually occurs in one foot, but it can develop in both feet. It is different from painless flexible flatfeet often seen in adolescents and children, because the pain and condition worsens over time.

Causes

The underlying cause of adult acquired flatfoot disorder is uncertain.  However, it links to certain ankle injuries and genetics. The irritated tendon stretches and loses its elasticity and ability to function. As a result, the arch flattens further. Over time, this can affect the biomechanics of the ankle the joint, leading to degenerative changes of the cartilage, also known as arthritis.

Symptoms

• Pain in the ankle, hind foot, and arch that worsens with increased activity.

• Swelling or deformity of the ankle, particularly on the inner ankle.

• Difficulty with balance, walking, and jumping on one leg.

Diagnosis

You foot and ankle orthopedic specialist will typically diagnose the condition through the patient’s description and the physical exam. The location of the pain, the shape and flexibility of the foot indicate how advanced the problem has become. Although X-rays do not show the tendon, if done while standings, they can show the flattening of the arch.  Your doctor may recommend an MRI to confirm the degree of damage to the tendon.

Treatments

Non-surgical Treatment

Early treatment attempts to stop the cycle of tendon damage and arch flattening. Depending on the severity of the condition, your doctor may recommend rest, braces, and walking boot immobilization. Non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs and properly fitting shoes may help reduce pain as well.  Shoes with arch supports, either over-the-counter or custom orthotics (shoe inserts), can help relieve the symptoms. Physical therapy exercises are also an important component of the treatment.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery is rarely helpful in the early stages of the disease. Your physician may recommend surgery if the disorder is severe and limits the patient’s daily activities.  In cases of severe muscle tightness, a muscle lengthening procedure is controversial but has been shown in some research to prevent progression. Tendon transfer with bone realignment is a surgical treatment that restores function and reduces pain, but the recovery is significant. Triple arthrodesis is a fusion procedure that is right for certain patients where the deformity is severe and has led to joint damage.  Recovery time from surgery depends on the specific procedure and the patient’s age and functional level.