Flat Feet Specialist

What are flat feet?

Flat feet is a common podiatric condition characterized by having no visible arches. If you have flat feet, the entire sole of your foot makes contact with the floor whenever you stand up or move around. 

Flat feet usually develops during childhood, but it can also occur as a result of an injury or due to regular wear-and-tear associated with the natural aging process. 

For some people, flat feet don't cause any problems. For others, it alters the alignment of the legs, causing foot, ankle, and lower back pain. 

What are the symptoms of flat feet?

In their early stages, flat feet typically don’t cause any problems. However, as the condition progresses, you might experience foot pain in your heels or arches or pain that worsens during exercise or other physical activity. Many people with flat feet also experience swelling along the inside of their ankles.

Who is at risk of having flat feet?

Flat feet affects people of all ages, races, and sexes, but there are certain factors that can increase your risk including:

• Being overweight
• Being middle-aged or older
• Diabetes
• Rheumatoid arthritis

You’re also more likely to suffer from flat feet if you’ve suffered a previous foot or ankle injury, such as a sprain or dislocation. 

How is flat feet diagnosed?

To diagnose flat feet, your Foot and Ankle Institute of Colorado provider physically examines your feet and ankles, asks you questions about your symptoms, and observes your feet from the front, back, and sides. Your provider also asks you to stand on your toes and examines the wear pattern on your shoes.

If these measures don’t provide enough information, your provider might also order a series of X-rays or an MRI to get a closer look at the bones, joints, and soft tissues in your feet. 

How are flat feet treated?

Treatment for flat feet depends on the severity of your symptoms and their impact on your quality of life. If you have a mild or moderate case of flat feet, you might benefit from stretching exercises, custom made orthotics, supportive shoes, or physical therapy.

If your pain persists even with conservative measures of care, surgical intervention might be necessary. There’s no surgery used to solely correct flat feet. However, your podiatrist might recommend surgery to correct a related problem such as a ruptured or torn tendon.

Don’t let flat feet negatively impact your quality of life or mobility. Request your consultation at Foot and Ankle Institute of Colorado today by calling the office or clicking the online booking tool.