Fixes For Flat Feet

Are you experiencing pain during long walks? Are your ankles particularly swollen? One of the many causes of foot pain is flat feet. Flat feet are quite common and occur when the arches of your heels touch the floor. You often see flat feet in infants and toddlers, whose arches haven’t developed yet. In some cases, people never develop their arches. While flat feet don’t always cause pain, it’s important to seek treatment if you do have discomfort.

Causes

There’s a wide range of reasons why adults have flat feet, including:

It’s also common for runners to experience flat feet over time, due to the wear and tear it can have on the feet.

Symptoms

Most people who have flat feet don’t even know they have it. Here are some of the signs and symptoms you could have flat feet:

  • Hip, leg, or back pain

  • Stiffness in the back, hips, and calves

  • Pain when walking

  • Trouble standing on the tips of your toes

  • Pain in your arches or heels

  • Swollen ankles

  • Leg cramping

Treatment

For those with flat feet and no pain, treatment isn’t always necessary. However, as with any foot condition, it’s important to see your podiatrist to get a diagnosis and check-up. This can prevent any further damage or injury. Below are some of the treatment options your podiatrist might recommend, especially if you are experiencing pain:

  • Custom orthotics

  • Supportive shoes

  • Arch supports

  • Icing your feet

  • Taping

  • Braces

  • Stretching, especially stretches for the Achilles tendon

  • Physical therapy

  • Resting your feet

  • Avoiding high-impact sports and activities, like jumping and running

  • Weight loss

  • Over-the-counter medicine, like Advil or Aleve

Although extremely rare, surgery may be suggested for people whose pain interferes with daily activities.

Advanced Feet and Ankle Care is here to assist you with any of your podiatry needs! To make an appointment with Jason M. Grossman, DPM, and Paul A. Osemene, DPM, call us at (732) 679-4330 or click here to schedule an appointment. The staff at our Old Bridge and Sayreville offices are ready and eager to help.

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