Pain From Flat Feet
Whether you were born with it, or it developed as you got older (adult-acquired flatfoot), flat feet can cause you chronic pain. You know you have flat feet if the arches of your feet are flat on the ground, instead of giving you an arch space when you stand. While some do not have any issues, others can have pain in the heel or arch area. Over time, it can cause issues in the ankles or knees.
Children can outgrow flatfoot if it is flexible flatfoot, but when arches fall as an adult, it’s usually due to an injury or wear and tear that weakens the tendon that supports the arch. The long-term consequence of flat feet is usually due to over-pronation. Because the arches are flat, the feet tend to roll inward toward each other. That puts the leg out of alignment and puts pressure on the inner parts of the ankles and knees. Over time, the misalignment can lead to pain and joint issues.
Therapy and Finding Relief
If you have severe pain from flat feet, you’ll want to make an appointment with our podiatrist for appropriate diagnosis and treatment, as you may have an associated problem. However, if you have mildly painful flat feet, there are some home therapies that you can try to get some relief.
If your flat feet are causing swelling, use the RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) method to relieve symptoms.
You can get some over-the-counter orthotic arch support inserts or get them custom-made by our podiatrists so that they are perfectly molded to your feet. They can also prescribe orthotic shoes for more support.
Our podiatrists may suggest some physical therapy to improve your gait and strengthen ankles to maintain good alignment. They can also give you exercises that prepare you for more intense exercises. However, try to avoid high-impact activities such as running on roads, basketball, soccer, or tennis.
If you are overweight or obese, losing weight reduces the pressure placed on your feet and hopefully reduces pain as well.
Stretching along the plantar fascia, as well as Achilles tendon can help relieve tightness. A nice foot rub can also help with pain.
If your pain is more severe, there might be another problem behind the pain. Surgery may be required if bones need to be mended or altered in shape or if tendon is to be added to help the arch form. In either case, flatfoot alone will not warrant surgery. Our podiatrist will be able to determine the solution for your situation.
Make an appointment with us at PerfectFeetCare Podiatry Centers. Our podiatrists will assess your feet and find the right treatment for you. Call us at our Miami (305-225-4277) or Hialeah (305-246-7437) offices today!
