Not Only High Heels Cause Flat Foot

Flat foot is most common among women older than 40 years. According to experts, the main causes of flatfoot are obesity, diabetes, and… high heels. How is the flat foot developed in women?

The frequent use of high-heeled shoes leads to the fact that posterior tibial tendons near the ankle are constantly strained. The result is flat foot. The shape of the foot also changes, its transverse and/or longitudinal arches lower, causing painful sensations.

However, a study conducted at the University of East Anglia showed that not only high heels are to be blamed for stretching the tendons. It coincides with the increased activity of specific proteolytic enzymes. These enzymes can destroy some parts of the posterior tibial tendon and weaken the muscle, resulting in a lowered arch of the foot.

The author of the study, Dr Graham Riley, said that his discovery could help create a special medication for changing the activity of these enzymes and treatment of flat foot as well as other problems. Similar changes in the tendons lead to other painful conditions. Thus, new drugs (the creation of which will take at least 10 years) may be an alternative to surgical intervention.