Flat Feet Specialist

What causes flat feet?

Flat feet can be something you’re born with, or they can develop later on in life (a condition known as posterior tibial tendon dysfunction or adult-acquired flat feet). When you have flat feet, your posterior tibial tendon that stretches across the arches of your feet over lengthens and your arches start to fall. As an adult, you can develop flat feet due to:

• Being overweight
• Injury or trauma
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Chronic diseases, including diabetes

Sometimes, flat feet are linked to overuse issues, such as participating in strenuous activities, like distance running.

Do I need treatment for flat feet?

It depends. Generally, it’s always best to have your flat feet evaluated at Premier Foot & Ankle to see if you’re at risk of over- or underpronation, which can gradually lead to chronic discomfort and ankle instability.

Or if flat feet are affecting your child after age seven, it’s time to schedule a pediatric foot exam. The sooner you or your child get started on treatment, the easier it is to prevent worsening of the condition.

You should plan on scheduling a flat feet examination right away if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms.

• Swelling
• Arch pain
• Foot tenderness
• Flattening of your arches
• Decreased range of motion
• Worsening foot or ankle pain

Your dedicated podiatrist at Premier Foot & Ankle examines your flat feet, performs any essential testing, and looks at X-ray or ultrasound images to determine the severity of your flat feet and best possible treatment solutions.

How are flat feet treated?

Treating flat feet usually begins with conservative measures. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your flat feet treatment plan from Premier Foot & Ankle may include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Oral steroid medications
• Custom-molded orthotics
• Ankle or foot braces
• Shoe modifications
• Physical therapy
• Fracture boot

Surgery may be necessary to correct flat feet if your condition has progressed into a stiff, rigid, or arthritic state. This type of reconstructive foot surgery can restore your foot function by repairing supportive tendons. No matter which type of flat feet treatment is right for you, the podiatry team at Premier Foot & Ankle care for you every step of the way.

Book your flat feet evaluation at Premier Foot & Ankle today and get the relief you need right away. You can conveniently schedule a visit online or over the phone with your nearest office.