What are flat feet?
Flat feet are a common condition where your feet lack a normal arch, so the entire sole of your foot touches the ground when you stand. When you’re born, your feet are flat. Usually your arch—an upward curve in the middle of your foot—develops throughout childhood.
If you have flat feet, it’s possible your arches never developed the way they were supposed to. It’s also possible for your arches to develop normally, then collapse in adulthood, which is known as “fallen arches.”
Fallen arches may result from a foot injury, including tendon tears or broken bones. It can also accompany other health conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and obesity.
Flat feet may be rigid, meaning the arches are never visible. They may also be flexible, which means you can see an arch when you don’t put weight on your feet, but they appear flat when you stand.
When is treatment necessary for flat feet?
Many people with flat feet experience no pain or additional problems. It’s only necessary to seek treatment for flat feet if they cause complications.
You may experience foot pain or find that your feet tire easily. That’s because flat feet affect how your body distributes weight and may receive more pressure than they can handle. Your feet may also become swollen and difficult to move.
You should seek treatment with Dr. Jurcisin if you notice any concerning changes to your feet. If your feet recently became flatter, you may have an underlying condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis or inflammation in the posterior tibial tendon, which can lead to severe chronic pain if left untreated.
Flat feet increase your risk of other foot complications, including plantar fasciitis, hammertoes, and bunions.
How are flat feet treated?
Though there’s no cure for flat feet, the complications are manageable. If your flat feet cause you pain, Dr. Jurcisin may first recommend conservative treatments, including:
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Icing
- Physical therapy
- Supportive taping and bracing
- Orthotics
If your flat feet are associated with tendon damage or foot deformities, it may be necessary to perform surgery to relieve the symptoms. Surgery for flat feet can repair damaged tendons, correct the alignment of your feet, and stabilize the bones in your feet.
Schedule an appointment at Precision Footcare online or over the phone today.
