Flat Feet Specialist

What does it mean to have flat feet?

Flat feet describes feet that lack arches. You can often tell you have flat feet if, when standing upright, the entire sole of your foot touches the ground.

You may have flat feet because your arches didn’t develop properly in your childhood. You can also develop flat feet later in life if you suffer an injury or due to age-related changes in your feet.

While flat feet is usually a painless condition, you can develop misalignment issues in your ankles and knees which can become painful. 

If you have difficulties walking or running, or notice pain or swelling in your ankles or feet, schedule a consultation at West Suburban Podiatry as soon as possible for a full evaluation.

How is flat feet diagnosed?

When you experience ankle or foot pain due to flat feet, your West Suburban Podiatry provider performs a physical exam of the affected area and may ask you to perform certain movements to evaluate your range of motion.

Additionally, your provider may order imaging tests, like X-rays or an ultrasound, to get a better look at the inner structures of your feet and ankles.

Based on the severity of your pain and limitations in your mobility, your West Suburban Podiatry specialist creates a treatment plan to provide long-term relief of your symptoms.

How is flat feet treated?

Your treatment plan for flat feet may start with stretching exercises that help to strengthen the muscles and tendons in your feet and ankles. Regular exercise is also important for ensuring you maintain a healthy body weight to relieve unnecessary pressure on your feet.

In addition to home exercises, you may benefit from physical therapy sessions to manage pain and keep you physically fit.

Your West Suburban Podiatry provider may also recommend specialized shoes that support your foot and/or orthotic devices that fit into your shoe to relieve flat feet pain. Custom-designed arch supports are especially beneficial for addressing pain and other symptoms of flat feet.

In cases where you have another injury to your foot, such as a tear in a tendon, your provider may recommend corrective surgery to repair the tendon and correct flat feet.

To schedule a diagnostic evaluation of pain relating to flat feet, call the office today or request an appointment online.