![]() ![]() It’s a condition where, instead of having a normal arch in your feet, this arch is eliminated. (Reference: 5)įlat feet is exactly what it sounds like… Later in the Vietnam War, the condition was no longer disqualifying. While I couldn’t find any specific information on when it no longer became a disqualifying condition, several sources noted that it likely started sometime between World War 2 and the beginning of the Vietnam War. A Short History Of Flat Feet In The Military Weight loss (if the condition is caused by obesity)Īll of these treatment options would be discussed with your doctor.Is There A Cure For Flat Feet?ĭespite the notion that flat feet is a fairly benign condition, there are some instances where it can be detrimental. If you’re already in the process of joining the military, they will officially test for flat feet at your Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS). Keep in mind that neither of these tests is an official diagnosis. You may also notice that you have difficulty standing on your tiptoes for long periods of time. If you observe no noticeable arch, then you likely have flat feet. Step 3: Slowly stand on your tiptoes on both feet. Step 2: Place both hands against the wall for stability. Step 1: Remove your shoes and socks, and stand on a firm floor surface. The Tiptoes test simply involves standing on your tiptoes and observing whether or not a visible arch forms. If you see a foot that’s completely connected, then that means you have a very low arch. Step 3: Place the foot on a white piece of paper, and then step off of it. Step 2: Take off your shoes and socks, and place your feet into the water. Step 1: Fill a baking dish or a cookie sheet with about half an inch of water. The best way to discover what type of arch you have is to do a footprint test. You can also check for yourself at home using the following tests: Footprint Test It typically involves a medical exam that will include things like a visual examination, x-rays, and possibly even an MRI. Related Article: Can You Join The Military With A DUI? How Can I Tell If I Have Flat Feet?Īs a medical condition, flat feet is a condition diagnosed by a podiatrist. These are actually some of the main reasons why flat feet used to be (and still is, in some cases) a disqualifying condition in the military. Pain in the foot after running or walking.However, a small percentage of the population does have symptoms that may affect their quality of life. The vast majority of people suffering from this condition do not display any adverse symptoms. Related Article: Can You Join The Military With Diabetes? It’s Possible Flat Feet Symptoms Adult Acquired Flatfoot (PTTD): Fallen arches can also be caused by obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, or surgery of the posterior tibial tendon.Weak Arches: In a weakened arch, flat feet will show while the patient is standing, but arches will show when he/she is sitting.Genetics: If one (or both) of your parents had flat feet, then there’s a good chance you will develop them as well.In fact, most infants start off with flat feet, and then gradually develop an arch by the age of 6. Related Article: Can You Join The Military With That? 20 Potential Medical Disqualifiers What Causes Flat Feet?įlat Feet normally develops in the infant stage of growth and is considered a completely normal condition that doesn’t require surgery or medical intervention. It is estimated that about 26% of the general population suffers from this condition, however, it is not considered life-threatening. Here’s the long answer: What Are Flat Feet?īefore getting into whether or not it’s a military disqualification, let’s first discuss the specifics of the ailment.įlat Feet ( Pes planus) is a condition characterized by a postural deformity where the arches of the foot are collapsed. These symptoms include pain in the arch or heel area, as well as swelling of the ankles. In short, this essentially means that if you are showing detrimental symptoms, you could be barred from enlisting in the military. So, can you join the Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marines if you have flat feet?įlat feet are no longer a disqualifying condition for military enlistment, provided that the enlistee does not show symptomatic flat feet. Many young Americans suffering from this condition wonder if it will ruin their chances of enlisting in the military. Flat feet is a condition that affects nearly 8 million adults in the US (Reference: 1), and is characterized by the elimination of the arch in your foot. ![]()
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