Have Flat Feet Pain? Try the Short Foot Exercise!

Flatfoot, or pes planus, is a prevalent condition characterized by a lower-than-normal arch in the foot. This can lead to pain, discomfort, and a range of additional foot problems. Short foot exercises (SFEs) have emerged as a potential non-invasive and affordable remedy for this condition. To assess their effectiveness, a systematic review was conducted.

The review analyzed 13 studies involving a total of 658 participants. These studies varied in terms of how often and for how long SFEs were performed, as well as the criteria used to measure their effectiveness. The findings indicated that SFEs were beneficial in enhancing arch height and alleviating the severity of flatfoot. Additionally, participants reported improved balance and reduced foot pain.

Overall, this systematic review supports the use of SFEs as a viable treatment for flatfoot deformity. Both clinicians and patients might consider incorporating SFEs into their management plans as a non-invasive and cost-effective approach to treating flatfoot.

Want to know what is causing your foot or ankle pain? Schedule an appointment with one of the expert clinicians at RISE for an evaluation to diagnose your problem and get back to living a pain-free life on your feet!