Effect of Foot Rehabilitation Exercises for Painful Flat Foot in a 20-Year-Old Female: A Case Study Analysis

• Published in: Curēus (Palo Alto, CA) Vol. 16; no. 4; p. e59377
• Main Authors: Kolhe, Pradhyum D, Sharath, H V, Rathi, Siddhi G, Patil, Deepali S
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Cureus Inc 30.04.2024; Cureus
• Subjects: Ankle; Biomechanics; Fingers & toes; Foot diseases; Gait; Orthopedics; Pain; Physical therapy; Rehabilitation; Sports Medicine; Tendons; Therapeutics; Walking; foot deformity; rehabilitation; physical therapy; flatfoot; pes planus
• ISSN: 2168-8184; 2168-8184
• DOI: 10.7759/cureus.59377

Pes planus, commonly referred to as flatfoot, is a congenital foot deformity characterized by the descent of the medial longitudinal arch, resulting in reduced spring action and increased stress on the foot during ambulation. This condition, opposite to pes cavus, typically lacks symptomatic presentation despite its structural abnormality. This case report discusses a 20-year-old female presenting to the musculoskeletal department of physiotherapy with impaired gait attributed to developmental flatfeet and an underdeveloped heel on one foot since birth. Apart from these foot deformities, no other significant abnormalities were noted upon examination. Orthotic management and ongoing monitoring have been initiated to facilitate functional independence. The prognosis for the patient's gait impairment remains optimistic with continued rehabilitation efforts aimed at dispelling misconceptions and barriers surrounding the correction of flatfoot deformities. This report underscores the importance of comprehensive rehabilitation strategies in managing flatfoot conditions to optimize patient outcomes and quality of life.