When the entire bottom of your foot touches the ground when you stand, then your arch is falling, and you have flat feet. While not always an issue, for the majority of the over 70 million folks in the country who have the condition, untreated flat feet causes foot and ankle pain and also contributes to knee, hip, and back problems.
The two main types of flat feet include:
- Congenital flat feet—This means you inherited the condition. Flexible flat feet is the most common congenital type and is characterized by the arch being present when weight is removed, but disappearing when you stand on the foot. It may or may not cause pain and discomfort.
- Acquired flat feet—As you age, the arch of the foot eventually succumbs to the continuous daily pressure and stress, and if the arch isn’t properly supported, painful conditions like plantar fasciitis can be the result.
Treatment for flat feet
Treatment for pain and swelling caused by having untreated flat feet includes taking ibuprofen, resting, icing, and physical therapy exercises. In some cases, flat feet don’t cause any problems and will not require any treatment. For most people, however, a computerized gait analysis can be performed by your foot doctor to determine how you pronate when you walk. Properly fitted shoes with custom orthotic inserts will correct most problems and even treat knee, hip, and back pain.
If you are experiencing problems from untreated flat feet, see your foot doctor for the proper diagnosis and treatment. Schedule an appointment with the Foot First Podiatry Center in New Albany, IN. Our highly qualified podiatrist Dr. Zahid Ladha, D.P.M., is dedicated to providing the best diagnostic care and medical treatment for you and your feet. Contact us at (812) 945-9221 and schedule an appointment today!