Flat Feet Specialist

What are flat feet?

Flat feet is a condition in which arches on the inside of your feet are too flat. This allows the sole of each foot to touch the floor when you stand, which can diminish foot functioning or feel painful. If you need arch support because of flat feet, see the Associated Foot Specialists team for an evaluation. 

What are the symptoms of flat feet?

Common signs and symptoms of flat feet include:

• Having no foot arch
• Foot pain
• Reduced mobility
• Arch or heel discomfort
• Pain that worsens with activity
• Foot or ankle swelling

If you have flat feet, it’s often obvious by simply looking at the bottom of your feet when you stand up.

What are the risk factors for flat feet?

Common causes and risk factors for having flat feet include:

• Genetics
• Aging
• Diabetes
• Foot or ankle injuries
• Obesity
• Rheumatoid arthritis

In some cases, children outgrow flat feet as they get older. In other instances, however, foot arches can fall over time because of years of wear-and-tear and weakened tissues that support foot arches.

How does my doctor diagnose flat feet?

Your Associated Foot Specialists provider can diagnose flat feet by looking at your feet when you stand up. They may also evaluate your shoes’ wear patterns or order CT scans, X-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs, or other imaging procedures to make a final diagnosis and detect or rule out additional foot problems. 

How are flat feet treated?

Common treatments for flat feet include:

Home remedies

To reduce discomfort caused by flat feet, avoid activities that hurt your feet. Choose lower-impact exercises instead. Rest your feet as needed, and lose weight if you’re overweight. Wear comfortable, supportive shoes and complete stretching or strengthening exercises as directed by your provider.

Custom orthotics

Wearing custom orthotics can support the arches of your feet to improve foot positioning and reduce discomfort.

Surgery

If you have specific foot or ankle problems linked to flat feet, your podiatrist could recommend you undergo minor surgery.

Don’t live with painful flat feet that diminish your mobility or quality of life. Call the Associated Foot Specialists office, or book an appointment online today.