Flat-feet Health Dictionary

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Flat-feet: From 1 Different Sources

A condition, usually affecting both feet, in which the arch is absent and the sole rests flat on the ground. The arches form gradually as supportive ligaments and muscles in the soles develop and are not usually fully formed until about age 6. In some people, the ligaments are lax or the muscles are weak and the feet remain flat. Less commonly, the arches do not form because of a hereditary defect in bone structure. Flatfeet can be acquired in adult life because of fallen arches, sometimes as the result of a rapid increase in weight. Weakening of the supporting muscles and ligaments may occur in neurological or muscular diseases such as poliomyelitis.

In most cases, flat-feet are painless and require no treatment, although in some cases the feet may ache on walking or standing. Arch supports can be worn in the shoes for comfort.

Health Source: BMA Medical Dictionary
Author: The British Medical Association

Flat-foot

Flat-foot, or pes planus, is a deformity of the foot in which its arch sinks down so that the inner edge of the foot comes to rest upon the ground.

Causes The disorder may develop in infancy or occur in adult life, usually resulting from a combination of obesity and/or an occupation involving long periods of standing.

Symptoms Often none, but there may be pain along the instep and beneath the outer ankle. The foot is sti? and broad, walking is tiresome, and the toes turn far out.

Treatment A change of occupation may be necessary, to one which allows sitting. In early cases the leg muscles may be strengthened by tiptoe exercises performed for ten minutes night and morning. A pad to support the arch may have to be worn inside the shoe. Rarely, children may require surgery.... flat-foot

Burning Feet

A SYNDROME characterised by a burning sensation in the soles of the feet. It is rare in temperate climes but widespread in India and the Far East. The precise cause is not known, but it is associated with malnutrition; lack of one or more components of the vitamin B complex is the likeliest cause (see APPENDIX 5: VITAMINS).... burning feet

Granny Flat / Annex

A permanent or temporary residence which adjoins a family home to enable older people to maintain independent living while remaining close to the family. May be newly built or converted.... granny flat / annex

Cold Feet

Due to poor circulation. Ginger, Cayenne Pepper condiment at meals, Essence of Cinnamon, Horseradish sauce, Mustard. Footbath: Chamomile or Mustard. Vitamins: Niacin, Pangamic acid. Honey. ... cold feet

Feet – Hot, Sweaty, Smelly

Excessive foot-sweat directs our attention to constitutional weakness, kidney malfunction or to general toxic condition. For fungoid infections: see under FUNGUS. Kidney remedies (diuretics) often reduce foot sweat (Juniper, Buchu, Golden Rod, Horsetail, Parsley root or leaves, Plantain, Thuja). Teas, decoctions, etc.

Constitutional treatment (oral): Liquid Extract Thuja: 5-10 drops morning and evening.

Topical. Foot baths: with teas from Chamomile, Sage, Rosemary, Juniper, or Southernwood. Half an ounce dried or fresh herb in 2 pints boiling water; infuse until warm. Weleda Foot Balm.

Diet. Dandelion coffee. Raw food days. Avoid eggs. Increase protein.

Vitamins. B-complex. B6. B12. E.

Minerals. Dolomite. Zinc.

General. Ban rubber shoes (plimsolls) which prevent adequate ventilation.

See: SWEATING, ABNORMAL. ... feet – hot, sweaty, smelly

Feet – Pain In

(Metatarsalgia)

Causes: foot-strain, deformity, osteoporosis, high heels throwing the body out of its normal posture, tight shoes.

Feet are often painful because one or more of the bones are out of alignment and which may be adjusted by simple osteopathy. The process can be assisted by foot-baths of Chamomile flowers, Arnica flowers, or Comfrey to relax muscles and tendons.

Alternatives. Alfalfa, Chaparral, Ligvites, Prickly Ash.

Topical. Aromatherapy. (Sensitive feet) Oils of Pine, Eucalyptus or Thyme – 6 drops, any one, to 2 teaspoons Almond oil. Warm. Massage into foot and wrap round with damp hot towel.

General. Acupuncture. Shoes should be bought in the afternoon, particularly if feet swell during the day. Shoes that fit well in the morning may have become too tight by tea-time. ... feet – pain in

Flat-panel Detector

a piece of equipment used instead of a conventional X-ray film to acquire the image in *digital radiography.... flat-panel detector

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