Adult flatfoot

Abstract

Flatfoot deformity in adults is a type of postural deformity of the foot in which the arch collapses. This conditionincludes a wide spectrum of clinical situations, ranging from asymptomatic to progressive and disabling pathology. The common causes of adult-acquired flatfoot deformity are sustained flexible flatfoot from childhood, posterior tibialtendon insufficiency, tarsal coalition, generalized inflammatory diseases, neuropathic arthropathy, and posttraumaticdeformities. The treatment of adult acquired flatfoot deformity should be individualized in each case, depending on thecauses, symptoms, severity of deformity, and flexibility of the deformity. Therefore, it is mandatory for physicians to beacquainted with the basic pathomechanics of flatfoot deformity as well as the diagnostic procedures and treatmentsfor each condition. The treatment usually begins with conservative methods and variable surgical procedures could beselectively performed. This article reviews the basic pathoanatomy, the diagnostic procedures for various causes andthe treatment of flatfoot deformity in adult.