Flat Feet Specialist

What are flat feet?

Flat feet occur when the arches on the bottom of your feet are flat, causing the soles of your feet to touch the floor while standing. While often painless, flat feet can contribute to ankle or knee problems in some cases. Treatment offers you relief and improves your foot alignment. 

Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction is a common problem that can affect your feet and ankles. It can occur when your posterior tibial tendon gets torn or inflamed. The condition might result in instability and flat feet.

What are the symptoms of flat feet?

Common signs and symptoms associated with flat feet include:

• Foot pain
• Heel or arch discomfort
• Pain with physical activity
• Ankle swelling
• Difficulty with high-impact activities
• Problems with long-lasting physical activity

It’s not uncommon to experience no symptoms with flat feet, especially in mild cases. If you do notice unpleasant or painful symptoms, see the Michigan Foot & Ankle Institute, PC, team for an evaluation. 

What are the risk factors for flat feet?

Flat feet can happen to anybody, but certain factors increase your risk of experiencing the condition. Genetics and a family history of flat feet are common risk factors. Others include obesity, rheumatoid arthritis, aging, foot or ankle injuries, and diabetes. 

How does my podiatrist diagnose flat feet?

To find out if you have flat feet, your podiatrist reviews your medical history, asks about symptoms you may have, and evaluates your foot structure while standing. They might ask you to stand on your toes or assess wear patterns on your shoes. 

Your specialist may recommend you undergo CT scans, MRIs, ultrasounds, or X-rays to make a final diagnosis and detect or rule out other foot problems.

What are common flat feet treatments?

Depending on the severity of your condition, your podiatrist might suggest one of the following treatments:

Watchful waiting

If you don’t have any symptoms associated with flat feet, your podiatrist may recommend watchful waiting.

Lifestyle changes

In the case of minor symptoms, at-home care can often reduce pain associated with flat feet. Rest your feet, choose low-impact physical activities, use arch supports, lose weight, or take over-the-counter pain relievers. 

Therapy 

Noninvasive therapy can reduce pain and mobility problems associated with flat feet. Examples include wearing custom orthotics or braces, completing rehabilitation exercises, wearing proper footwear, and improving running form with the help of a physical therapist. 

Surgery

If you experience tendon ruptures or tears, your podiatrist might recommend you undergo surgery to repair the injury or remove inflamed tissue.

Don’t live with pain or a poor gait associated with flat feet when simple treatments can improve your quality of life. Schedule an appointment with Michigan Foot & Ankle Institute, PC, by phone or request one online today.