Flat Feet Specialist

Why do I have flat feet?

Flat feet can be something you have from childhood, although most children outgrow flat feet, or they can develop later on in adulthood. If you have flat feet or fallen arches, it could be related to: 

• Injury or trauma
• Obesity or being overweight   
• Chronic disease, like diabetes
• Arthritis, especially rheumatoid arthritis
• Neuromuscular conditions, including cerebral palsy

Your flat feet may be associated with damage or injury to your posterior tibial tendon, which leads to a painful condition known as progressive flatfoot. Women who are pregnant are also prone to developing flat feet because of hormonal fluctuations and increased weight. 

Do I need treatment for flat feet?

If your flat feet aren’t bothering you, it’s still important to take preventive measures to lower your risk of pain and flat feet-related issues in the future. The podiatry team at The Foot Specialty Practice encourage you to come in for a flat feet evaluation if you’re experiencing:

• Gradual lowering in your arches
• Heel, arch, ankle, or lower leg pain 
• Stiffness or limited range of motion
• Inflammation, tenderness, or swelling

It’s particularly important to have a flat feet evaluation as soon as possible if your foot discomfort is becoming so severe it’s starting to affect your work, exercise, or daily activities. You also need flat feet treatment soon if you have ankle instability or over- or under pronation issues, which can lead to serious wear-and-tear on your feet and ankles. 

How are flat feet treated? 

The Foot Specialty Practice tailors your flat feet treatment plan to the severity of your fallen arches and your specific symptoms. Treating flat feet can include:

• Regular icing 
• Physical therapy
• Custom orthotics 
• Weight loss planning
• Supportive taping or bracing
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

While rare, occasionally, surgery is the best solution for treating underlying issues that cause flat feet. In any case, the dedicated foot and ankle specialists at The Foot Specialty Practice help you get relief from flat feet, no matter how minor or how severe your symptoms may be. 

Schedule your flat feet evaluation at The Foot Specialty Practice and get started on treatment right away. You can conveniently request an appointment either online or over the phone.