The condition is clinically explained as "an inflammation and/or overstretching of the posterior tibial tendon in the foot. An important function of the posterior tibial tendon is to help support the arch. But in PTTD, the tendon's ability to perform that job is impaired, often resulting in a flattening of the foot." (FP, 1) Other implications to the condition will relate directly to the likelihood of pain and discomfort in the foot itself.

The improper distribution of weight and pressure in one's step can be the close for undue and excessive ground contact with load-bearing parts of the foot. The heel is especially vulnerable to inflammation and pain, contributing to the close connection between the presence of flat feet and the intrusion of condition called plantar fasciitis. Here, "heel pain is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia -- the tissue along the bottom of your foot that connects your heel bone to your toes." (Mayo Clinic, 1)

Ultimately, for those who are experiencing regular discomfort in the feet, and in the lower extremities, as well as persistent discomfort throughout the spinal column, there is reason to consider the implications of flat feet, which can lead to more serious and chronic injury. According to a study conducted on military personnel and released in 2002, improper footing can lead to an array of injuries. The study denotes that "stress fractures represent one of the most common and potentially serious overuse injuries. " (Jones et al., 228)

Treatment for fallen arches can run a gamut from the institution of simple and regular gymnastic...

The most common forms of treatment are those which target the symptoms pain through anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen and those which target the malformation condition through shaping insoles. (IntelliHealth, Inc., 1) the Orhotic is a costly custom-made insole which is most often used to help adult sufferers gradually adjust to walking with an artificial arch support. In these instances however, individuals will be required to use the insoles in perpetuity.
Works Cited

IntelliHealth Inc. (2007). Fallen Arch. Aetna Intellihealth. Online at http://www.intelihealth.com/IH/ihtIH/WS/9339/25652.html

James, E. (2006). Knee Pain.

Comfort Shoes. Online at http://www.comfortshoe.com/knee_pain.html

Jones, B.H.' Thacker, S.B.; Gilchrist, J.; Kimsey, C.D. & Sosin, D.M. (2002). Prevention of Lower Extremity Stress Fracturesin Athletes and Soldiers. Epidemiological Reviews, 24, 228-247.

Foot Physicians (FP). (2005). Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD). American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons. Online at http://www.footphysicians.com/footankleinfo/pttd.htm

MayoClinic. (2008). Plantar Fasciitis. The Mayo Clinic. Online at http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/plantar-fasciitis/DS00508

UCSF. (2006). Flat Foot. University of California, San Francisco: Children's Hospital. Online at http://www.ucsfhealth.org/childrens/medical_services/ortho/foot/conditions/flatfoot/signs.html