There are many causes of flat feet. Some people are born with them, others acquire flatfeet as a result of arthritis, trauma, or musculoskeletal disorders. Overuse or repeated pounding on hard surfaces can also weaken the arch.

Roughly 25 percent of Americans suffer from various forms of flatfoot, a physical deformity in the feet wherein the bottom of the feet are flat, lacking arches.   It's one of the most overlooked and under-diagnosed conditions and can lead to a series of life-long medical problems if not corrected early in life. 

There are some 20 combinations of flatfeet, and they fall into two categories:  

•  Non-rigid, or flexible: less severe form; flatfoot is more common in certain populations.

•  Rigid, or inflexible: more severe and may occur with congenital bone malformations 

Symptoms 
Foot and/or leg fatigue Leg and arch cramps Night pain Arch pain an unnatural gait Feet that over-rotate to the side (because the arch cannot support the weight of the body )

Treatment 
Treatment of flatfoot depends on the level of severity. Initially, corrective shoes and orthotics are used.  Various forms of surgery are performed; one of which features the Subtalar M.B.A. implant from KMI, which is used to treat flexible flatfoot. The Subtalar M.B.A. implant is a tiny, threaded implant that is inserted into the small opening called the sinus tarsi, located in the rear foot. The implant creates a natural arch. Tissue then grows normally around it to hold it in place. The insertion of the M.B.A. involves one brief outpatient surgery, with approximately one half-hour of anesthesia, six stitches, two weeks on crutches and two more in a protective boot. Originally used in surgeries on children with flexible flatfoot, today surgeons are using it equally on adults and children. Although not every patient is a candidate for the implant, those who are, are likely to experience excellent results.  Ask your doctor about the Subtalar M.B.A.