Healthcommunities.com

Home Health Topics Health Reports Learning Centers Find a Podiatrist Medical Website Design Free Newsletters

Flatfeet Risk Factors and Causes

Flatfeet Risk Factors and Causes

Most cases of flatfeet are simply the result of normal development. When that is not the case, the condition can be caused by a number of factors, including the following:

Flattened arches in adults may result from the stresses of aging, weight gain, and the temporary increase in elastin (protein in connective tissue) due to pregnancy.

In some cases, flatfeet are caused by a physical abnormality, such as tarsal coalition (two or more bones in the foot that have grown together) or accessory navicular (an extra bone along the side of the foot).

Article Continues Below



The effects of diseases such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis can lead to flatfeet. An injury (e.g., bone fracture, dislocation, sprain or tear in any of the tendons and ligaments in the foot and leg) also can cause flatfeet.


  • « Flatfeet Overview
  • Signs and Symptoms of Flatfeet »

  • Podiatrist-developed and -monitored.
    Original Date of Publication: 17 May 2007
    Reviewed by: Hai-En Peng, D.P.M., Stanley J. Swierzewski, III, M.D.
    Last Reviewed: 17 May 2007

    © 1998-2010 Healthcommunities.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    Flatfeet (Fallen Arches)
    Flatfeet Overview
    Flatfeet Risk Factors and Causes
    Signs and Symptoms of Flatfeet
    Flatfeet Diagnosis
    Flatfeet Treatment
    Flatfeet Prevention
    One Person Story: MY LIFE WITH FIBROMYALGIA THE INVISIBLE ILLNESS
    Find a Podiatrist
    Free Health Newsletters
    Join Our Forum

    See All Health Topics »


    Featured Learning Centers



    Healthcommunities.com

    This website is certified by Health On the Net Foundation. Click to verify.This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information:
    verify here.


    This page last modified: 15 Jun 2010

    MediZine's Healthy Living™ Remedy® Diabetes Focus® MDMinute® Remedy®