Biomechanics of procedures used in adult flatfoot deformity.

A flatfoot deformity can occur secondary to fairly obvious causes, or more subtle and less definable entities. Complicating the situation further, it is likely that the cause of an acquired flatfoot deformity in an adult is multifactorial. This likelihood makes the definition, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment of this condition a daunting task. More research is needed to define further the biomechanics of the foot and to understand the significance of the forces that combine to create flatfoot deformity.