All children are born with flatfeet. As they begin to walk, the muscles in their feet begin to strengthen and form an arch. By the age of 7, a normal arch should be present. This does not mean other conditions are not present. Flat feet in the adult can lead to a number of problems. Bunions, hammertoes, plantar fascitis, neuromas, and tendonitis are just a few. The foot is the foundation for the entire body.
As we walk, a number of motions take place. This motion starts as the heel touches the ground. The arch collapses to adapt to the surface as well as to absorb shock. This process creates a rotation inward with the leg. The rotation is picked up by the knee and thigh. The pelvis then rotates and moves in an up and down fashion. The back picks up this force by swaying with the changes. This force is then completed with an opposite motion at the shoulders and head. So in regards to individuals with flat feet, it is easy to see how excessive motion at the very foundation can indirectly create problems all of the way up to the back and neck.
