My dad has been told that he has 'fallen arches'.
What does this mean?
What can he do to ease the pain?
The term 'fallen arches' is rather a historical one, but is one many people seem to have heard of.
What it essentially refers to is a ligament problem in the sole of his foot where these run along its length.
In most people these ligaments provide support to the foot when walking and help keep the foot in a normal anatomical position.
Some people however seem to have laxity in these ligaments so the foot becomes under undue strain and pain can occur as a result.
Treatment often consists of giving the affected foot support from underneath so that the strain is taken off it (by the use of insoles or support pads) and so symptoms are relieved.
A specialist in this problem is known as a podiatrist and these do work in the NHS – ask you father's doctor whether his condition is bad enough to warrant a referral to such a specialist.
The NetDoctor Medical Team
Other Qs & As