Flat feet (also referred to as fallen arches) are common among adults in America (approximately 18 million according to the National Foot Health Assessment), and if you're one of them, this means you lack arches at the bottom of your feet. Though it's not the same experience for everyone, because the feet are flat on the ground, more weight is added to the feet, causing further pain or soreness. At Foot First Podiatry in New Albany, IN, Dr. Zahid Ladha understands how flat feet can cause heel pain or soreness and is committed to developing a suitable plan to reduce your pain.
Causes Of Fallen Arches
If your feet are flat, it's because the network of tissues (or tendons) that connect to the joints in the feet has weakened. Young children may have flat feet, but that does not always mean it's long-term, since their bodies are still growing.
In most cases, flat feet are a result of genetics—meaning you can thank your parents for your fallen arches! But they can also develop because of other conditions (e.g. diabetes), weakening of the tendons in the feet from aging, or injuries that damage the tendons.
Treating Flat Feet
You may not be experiencing any pain or symptoms from your flat feet, which means you don't require any treatment! However, if you're feeling continual pain in the heel or arches of your feet, we recommend visiting with Dr. Ladha in New Albany, IN, to discuss how to begin reducing inflammation, soreness, or heel pain.
To alleviate your pain, Foot First Podiatry Group encourages you to consider:
- wearing the proper footwear—this includes soles that provide all-around support for your heels and arches or custom orthotics (shoe inserts)
- maintaining stretches and exercises that help to strengthen your feet and calves
- offering as much rest to your feet as you can, and to ice the affected area—this will alleviate the daily wear and tear on the feet that causes inflammation or swelling
- discussing the best anti-inflammatory medication to relieve some of your pain with your doctor
Rebuild Your Foot Strength
At Foot First Podiatry Group, Dr. Ladha is prepared to offer a thorough examination of your fallen arches to determine the best plan to improve your condition. If you're experiencing unrelenting discomfort, tired feet, or heel pain, schedule a visit with our office in New Albany, IN, by giving us a call at (812) 945-9221, today!