Complications And Treatments Of Flat Feet

Flat Feet occur when feet do not have a normal arch when standing and are referred to as “pes planus,” which translates into fallen arches. It’s relatively common in babies and will generally go away by the time they reach the age of three however it may linger through adulthood. It may not cause any pain, although if it does, it can cause discomfort that radiates from the feet to the calves, knees or back.

A type of flat foot referred to as “rigid” causes pain in the arch at all times, regardless of whether the foot is in the standing position or not. Generally, those who take part in high-intensity activities tend to irritate this condition since the foot can become swollen due to the abnormal impact as it hits the ground during periods of high stress.

Moreover, when this condition develops as an adult, it is likely due to trauma, hereditary deformities or obesity. Symptoms of this condition include a constant lethargy in the feet coupled with a nagging pain, all of which is due to the arches’ inability to form a proper bend that keeps the foot’s surface in its optimal shape.

Treatment for this condition includes:

• Utilizing appropriate footwear to prevent unnecessary stress on the arches.

• Physical therapy emphasizing stretching.

• Resting the foot during periods of pain.

• Losing weight to reduce the pressure placed on the foot.

• Medications to lower any swelling in the foot caused by this condition.

• Use of custom orthotics to redistribute forces along the foot in an attempt to alleviate pain.

Flat feet may not be a problem for some, yet it can become a serious complication for others. Please contact us at Valley Stream Podiatry, located in our convenient Valley Stream, NY office for a comprehensive biomechanical examination. Our podiatrists, flat foot specialists, will provide targeted and proven treatment methods to help you! So, please make an appointment today by calling our office at (516) 825-3860 or fill out our appointment request form.