Arches help support your body weight as well as the tendons and ligaments in your feet and lower legs. Babies are born with flat feet and usually develop arches by the time they are 2 or 3 years old. Arches that are considered normal have fully developed and are visible as an upward curve on the sole of your foot. If a person does not develop a normal arch, this is known as having flat feet. Many people with flat feet are asymptomatic, while others experience fatigue, or aching in their feet after significant periods of standing or physical activity. They may also have pain in their hips, knees, or lower back. Flat feet can sometimes lead to alignment issues in certain joints and bones or even bunions. Flat feet in adults may be caused by ligament injuries, rheumatoid arthritis, torn or weakened tendons, or even broken bones. A chiropodist can help treat symptomatic flat feet with physical therapy and stretching exercises, supportive shoes, arch supports, and more.

Flat feet are a common foot condition. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort due to flat feet, please consult with one of the chiropodists from Complete Family Footcare & Therapy. Our clinicians will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Are Flat Feet? 

Flat feet are feet that do not have a well-defined arch in the middle of the sole of the foot. Flat feet may be flexible or rigid. Flexible flat feet have an arch when there is no pressure put on the foot, such as when one is sitting, but the arch disappears upon standing. Rigid flat feet lack an arch regardless of whether one is standing or not. 

Causes

Flat feet can be present from birth or acquired over time due to a weakening of the ligaments in the arch. Sometimes flat feet are caused by illnesses, injuries, or pregnancy. 

Symptoms

Flat feet often cause no noticeable symptoms. However, some people may experience pain and discomfort due to their flat feet. 

Symptoms associated with flat feet include:

• Pain in the arch, heel, ankle, or along the outside of the foot

• Overpronation of the foot

• Shin splints

• Aching or fatigue in the feet or legs

• Pain in the knees, hips, or lower back

Treatment 

In cases where flat feet cause symptoms, there are various treatments available. Wearing orthotic inserts in your shoes to provide more arch support, performing stretches, and taking medications may improve your symptoms. If you are overweight, losing weight can help relieve pressure on the feet. In severe cases, surgery may be considered. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.