Causes of Flat Feet

Gulf Coast Foot and Ankle Specialist - December 10, 2019

Flat feet is a common foot condition that affects millions of Americans. The feet are the foundation of the body, and any misalignment that occurs from flat feet may affect the rest of it. An assessment is often performed to determine the severity of one's flat feet. The ankles may show signs of turning in, and this can an individual's gait. There are several reasons why flat feet develop, such as an injury that has occurred, diseases like diabetes, or conditions that may develop from arthritis, which may alter the structure of the foot. You may notice pain and swelling surrounding the ankle, and this is a general sign that this condition may be present. Visit a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and possible treatment options.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Texas Gulf Coast Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment - The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees - If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.

Symptoms:

Pain around the heel or arch area
Trouble standing on the tip toe
Swelling around the inside of the ankle
Flat look to one or both feet
Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment:

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Webster, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Flatfoot is a foot condition in which the arch of the foot has either partially or totally dropped or has never developed. While it is common in babies and small children, it can become a problem for them in adulthood if the arch never forms. For adults, the development of flat feet can be brought upon by injury, as a result of pregnancy due to increased elasticity, or obesity. Those who have health concerns such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes may also be at greater risk for developing the condition.

If you suspect that you have flat feet, it is best to consult your podiatrist. Your foot doctor will examine the suspected foot and observe how it looks while you sit and stand. He or she may take an X-ray to determine how serious the condition is. Some common signs of flatfoot include toe drift, in which the toes and front part of the foot point outward, a short Achilles tendon, and a heel that tilts outwardly while the ankle tilts inward.

Once flatfoot has been diagnosed, your podiatrist may suggest one of several treatment options. Flat feet can be rigid, in which the feet appear to have no arch even when the person is not standing; or flexible, in which the person appears to have an arch while not standing, but once standing the arch disappears. Those with flexible flatfoot may be told to reduce any activities that cause pain and to avoid extended periods of walking or standing. Another suggestion may be weight loss, as excessive weight may be placing pressure on the arches

In few cases, if the condition is severe and all other methods have been exhausted surgery may be required. This is normally avoided, however, due to a lengthy recovery time and high cost.

The Effects Obesity Has On the Feet

December 10, 2019

It's important to maintain proper foot care, and added weight can result in the development of numerous foot conditions.