DownSyndrome
People with Down syndrome are unfortunately known to have problems with bunions, unstable ankles along with knee and hip problems. The laxity of the ligaments is the cause of these problems since the joints are unable to stay in alignment. Ligaments are made up of long fibers of collagen.Down syndrome is the addition of a part or whole chromosome on Chromosome 21, which is also where collagen is also formed.
Ligaments connect bone to bone or joints where tendons connect bone to muscles. If the ligaments are not able to support the joints, this leads to collapsing of the arches or pronation. Pronation is the action of the arches falling and collapsing and the result is flat feet. Approximately 95% of people with Down syndrome have flat feet. Flat feet results in problems such as bunions, ankle instability and knee and hip subluxation.
Treatment Options
It is recommended to start at an early age wearing supportive shoes and insoles. Higher topped shoes with the most support are recommended. Due to flat feet, only insoles that have a 3 point correction in the heel, arch and forefoot will actually keep the foot from pronating.
Make sure the shoes are not worn down and are the correct size. Often times, when the foot is flattening out and has no support, it feels better to be in bigger shoes and/or not tie the shoes since doing so causes irritation, especially in the arch area.
It is recommended to do some physical therapy exercises and agility exercises like walking in a straight line, jumping jacks and balancing on one foot. Playing on a trampoline does wonders for balance and building strength.
View a short interview with Dr. Riley about Down syndrome and flat feet here.
Insoles for flat feet
J1 Insoles has created an insole that corrects overpronation, providing your foot with the corrective support it needs in all 3 areas. Insoles for flat feet seek to correct overpronation by placing the heel in neutral position, providing true support for the fallen arch and correction for the forefoot varus. No other over the counter arch support corrects in all 3 areas of the foot like the patented design of J1 Insoles for flat feet.
If you also would like to download our brochure on Down syndrome and the effects on the Feet and Body do so HERE.
