Flat Feet (Fallen Arch)

If the entire sole of your feet lie flat when they touch the floor and the arches of your feet are flattened, you have flat feet (fallen arches.)

This condition is common and typically occurs during childhood. And, flat feet in children will usually develop into an arch. Although, if they do not, or if you end up developing flat feet as an adult (fallen arches), there is nothing you can do to correct this. There is usually no pain associated with this condition, but if it becomes painful, you should consult a doctor.

FLAT FOOT (FALLEN ARCHES) SYMPTOMS:

There are generally no signs or symptoms associated with Flat Foot. Although a small number of people with flat feet will experience foot pain or swelling in the heel or arch area. If this occurs, it is normal for pain to worsen with activity.

If you arent certain you have flatfoot, take the flat foot tests here.

If you suspect that you are experiencing flatfoot, schedule an appointment online to visit our lead podiatrists in South Florida.

CAUSES OF FLAT FEET:

When it comes to infants and toddlers, it is normal until their arch develops. Typically, people develop arches throughout childhood, but there are cases where people will not. People without aches may have foot problems, but it is more uncommon than so. Another form of flat foot is called flexible flatfoot. This develops in children, and it is where the arch of their foot is visible until they stand and their foot flattens. It is common for children to outgrow flexible flat feet without any issues.

As we age, it is also possible for our arches to fall. Years of wear and tear on our feet can weaken the tendon along the inside of your ankle. Therefore, causing issues with the arches of your feet.

RISK FACTORS OF FALLEN ARCHES:

There are a few factors which can increase your risk for flat feet, which are as follows:

Obesity
Injury to your foot or ankle
Rheumatoid arthritis
Aging
Diabetes

NON-SURGICAL TREATMENT:

Treatment is typically not necessary if you’re living with flat feet or flat feet as long as they do not cause pain. Although, if they do cause pain, you may benefit from the below treatments.

Arch support:

Although arch supports will not cure flat feet. They are great alternatives for a painful flat foot. You can typically purchase these over-the-counter, and they will help alleviate the pain.

Supportive shoes:

If you suffer from this condition, a supportive shoe will also benefit you structurally. Additionally, it is more comfortable than sandals, which offer very little support.

Stretching exercises:

If you have flat feet, you must stretch often. Some people with this condition suffer from a shortened Achilles tendon. Stretching this tendon could help relieve painful feet.

Physical therapy:

Some runners will experience flatfeet from overuse or injuries. Visiting a physical therapist may help improve your form and technique.

SURGICAL TREATMENT:

Tendon Transfer:

It is possible that if you have flexible flatfoot, this could be an indication of the need for a tendon transfer. A tendon transfer is a medical procedure that is used to restore normal motion to a foot and ankle which has lost function. While some tendon transfers enable the foot and ankle to move up and down to recover some movement, others bring the foot into a position where it is less stressful to walk, stand, or wear shoes.

Although this will not allow for increased movement. … [READ MORE]

Subtalar Arthroereisis:

Studies show that that subtalar arthrodesis returns substantially deforming forces and moments of the flatfoot back toward the values experienced in normal arches. Subtalar arthrodesis is meant to assist in treating the hyperpronated foot by balancing the subtalar joint… [READ MORE]

For a preferred flat foot specialist in Broward or Palm Beach County, call us today at 954-906-9272 to schedule a consultation. For a South Florida foot doctor located in Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Coral Springs & Plantation, contact us today.