Flat Feet Specialist

What are flat feet?

Flat feet, also known as flatfoot, is a condition that develops when the arches — the space between your heels and toes — flatten out. As a result, your entire foot may feel flush with the ground when you stand. Normally, the arches sit above the ground, which supports the feet and ankles. When you have flat feet, you’re more vulnerable to ankle pronation. This condition causes your feet and ankles to roll inward.

What are the symptoms of flat feet?

Flat feet are typically apparent when you stand. If your entire sole touches the ground when you stand, you likely have flat feet. Other common symptoms of flat feet include:

• Pain in the arches of the feet
• Tenderness
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain when walking
• Tightness
• Heel pain
• Knee pain
• Lower back pain

The longer you wait to seek treatment for flat feet, the more the condition progresses. Early intervention can help relieve many of the symptoms of flat feet to improve your quality of life.

What causes flat feet?

Flat feet are highly common in young children and toddlers. While most children develop higher arches as they age, some don’t. The condition is also common in aging adults. Constant pressure on the posterior tibial tendon, which helps support your arch, often leads to flat feet.

The most common risk factors for flat feet include:

• Excess weight
• Advanced age
• General wear-and-tear
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Genetics
• Injury
• Diabetes
• Previous surgery

At Ambulatory Foot & Ankle Clinic, your podiatrist performs a comprehensive foot and gait evaluation to determine the appropriate treatment for your flat feet.

What are the treatments for flat feet?

Individuals with flat feet typically benefit from conservative treatments, such as:

Orthotics

Orthotics are custom-made devices that you wear inside your shoes. Made from highly accurate molds of your feet, orthotics cushion and support your feet exactly where you need it most. Wearing orthotics can relieve pressure from your arches to reduce pain and improve your mobility.

Shoe modifications

Your podiatrists at Ambulatory Foot & Ankle Clinic may recommend shoe modifications to support your arches. In general, shoes with high-level arch support are better for flat feet than flats or sandals.

Stretches

Stretching the tendons in your feet each day can reduce tension and relieve pain in your arches and heels.

Physical therapy

After a complete analysis of your feet, your podiatrist can improve your gait and form through targeted exercises, stretches, massage, and other forms of physical therapy.

To learn more about flat feet, call Ambulatory Foot & Ankle Clinic, or schedule an appointment online today.