Flatfoot: meaning, definitions and examples

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flatfoot

 

[ ˈflæt.fʊt ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

foot condition

Flatfoot, also known as fallen arches, is a condition in which the arches of the feet flatten out, causing the entire foot to make contact with the ground. This anatomical variation can lead to discomfort, pain, and problems with alignment. Flatfoot can happen in one or both feet and may be present from birth or develop over time due to various factors such as injury, aging, or medical conditions. While it can sometimes be asymptomatic, many individuals experience related issues, making appropriate footwear and exercises important.

Synonyms

fallen arches, pes planus.

Examples of usage

  • He was diagnosed with flatfoot after complaining of foot pain.
  • Flatfoot can cause knee and back pain due to misalignment.
  • Many athletes choose supportive footwear to accommodate flatfoot.
  • Surgery may be recommended in severe cases of flatfoot.

Translations

Translations of the word "flatfoot" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pé chato

🇮🇳 समतल पैर

🇩🇪 Plattfuß

🇮🇩 kaki datar

🇺🇦 плоскостопість

🇵🇱 płaskostopie

🇯🇵 扁平足

🇫🇷 pied plat

🇪🇸 pie plano

🇹🇷 düz taban

🇰🇷 평발

🇸🇦 قدم مسطحة

🇨🇿 ploché nohy

🇸🇰 ploché nohy

🇨🇳 扁平足

🇸🇮 ravna stopala

🇮🇸 flöt fótur

🇰🇿 плоская стопа

🇬🇪 ბრტყელი ფეხი

🇦🇿 düz ayaq

🇲🇽 pie plano

Etymology

The term 'flatfoot' originated in the late 19th century, combining the word 'flat', meaning level or even, with 'foot', referring to the human extremity used for standing and walking. This descriptive term emerged to denote the condition where the foot arch is noticeably lower or absent. The word 'flat' relates back to Old English 'fleta', meaning flat surface, and can be traced to Proto-Germanic origins. As medical understanding evolved, the term gained prominence in both clinical settings and everyday language, often used when discussing both children and adults experiencing foot issues. Over time, flatfoot has become a common term in orthopedics and physical therapy, leading to the development of various treatments and supportive footwear specifically designed for individuals with this condition.