Pes planus can either be congenital or acquired. Dysfunction of the arch complex, specifically relating to flexible flat foot, can frequently be asymptomatic, but can alter the biomechanics of the lower limbs and lumbar spine causing an increased risk of pain and injury. It functions to dissipate the forces of weight-bearing and acts to store mechanical energy within the stretched elastic ligaments during the gait cycle. The arch serves as an adaptive and flexible base for the entire body. The talocalcaneal interosseous ligament, tibionavicular portion of the deltoid ligament, spring ligament, and medial talocalcaneal ligament assist in stabilizing the arch of the foot.

The arch of the foot is a tough, elastic connection of ligaments, tendons, and fascia between the forefoot and the hindfoot. Pes planus commonly referred to as “flat feet,” is a relatively common foot deformity and is defined by the loss of the medial longitudinal arch of the foot where it contacts or nearly contacts the ground. Summarize interprofessional team strategies for improving care coordination and communication to advance the treatment of pes planus and optimize patient outcomes.Review the treatment options for pes planus.Outline the presentation of a patient with pes planus.This activity describes the presentation, evaluation, and management of pes planus and highlights the role of the interprofessional team in the care of affected patients. Dysfunction of the arch complex is usually asymptomatic but can alter the biomechanics of the lower limbs and lumbar spine causing an increased risk of pain and injury. It serves as an adaptive support base for the entire body, functions to dissipate the forces of weight-bearing and acts to store energy during the gait cycle. The medial longitudinal arch of the foot is a tough, elastic connection of ligaments, tendons, and fascia between the forefoot and the hindfoot. Pes planus is a relatively common foot deformity that refers to the loss of the medial longitudinal arch of the foot, resulting in this region of the foot coming closer to the ground or making contact with the contacting the ground.

Pes planus deformity