Static Foot Disorders as a Risk Factor for the Development of Chronic Venous Disease: A Cross-sectional, Single-center Study

Abstract

Introduction: Static foot disorders (SFDs) are prevalent among adults and have been linked to chronic venous disease (CVD). This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of SFDs in patients with CVD and their association with disease severity. Methodology: This study was performed at the Department of General Surgery, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research to study the relationship between the SFDs and clinical, etiological, anatomical, and pathological elements (CEAP) clinical severity in the Indian population. A complete CEAP classification and venous symptoms were noted. Djian’s angle was used to quantify SFD. Results: Among the 224 feet examined, 50.4% had SFD (14.73% had hollow feet and 35.7% had flat feet), and 56.7% had advanced CVD (C3–6 group). There was no difference in SFD and CEAP class based on the laterality of the foot. Patients with advanced CVD (C3–C6) had a significantly higher incidence of SFDs compared to those with less severe disease (C0–C2), particularly among individuals aged <30 years (P < 0.05). Conclusion: This study underscores the high prevalence of SFDs in patients with CVD, especially among younger individuals with advanced disease. Search for SFD should be made during the examination of CVD. Further research is warranted to explore whether correction of SFD improves CVD symptoms.

Keywords

• flat foot
• hollow foot
• pes cavus
• pes planus
• static disorders of the foot
• venous insufficiency