Flat Feet

Flat Feet Treatment in Bradenton and Sarasota, FL

Flat feet and Fallen Arches treatment in in the Manatee County, FL: Bradenton (University Park, Bayshore Gardens, Palmetto, Foxleigh, Lakewood Ranch, Ellenton, Parrish) and Sarasota County, FL: Sarasota (South Gate Ridge, Sarasota Springs, Venice, Laurel, Osprey, Fruitville, South Sarasota, North Sarasota, Southgate, Bee Ridge) areasFlat feet is a condition that affects those who have little to no arch in their feet. When you stand, a person who doesn’t have flat feet will have a gap from the inner part of their feet to the floor, due to the normal arch that slightly rises off the ground. Those with flat feet will experience no such gap. While there are some people who experience no issues with their flat feet, it’s not uncommon for those with this condition to experience discomfort or pain.

Flat feet may cause a certain level of pain due to strained muscles and connecting ligaments. Those not afflicted by flat feet are able to get support while walking by the spring that the arch provides, which in turn, helps to distribute your body weight while taking steps. When the arch is no longer present, there is a larger amount of pressure on your muscles and ligaments in the feet, which is why they become strained and may cause you to feel pain.

Causes of Flat Feet and Fallen Arches

There are many reasons that play a role in why a person may develop flat feet. For instance, certain genetic factors passed down from parents can lead to flat feet. Children may appear to have flat feet; however, their arches should develop over time. Having overall weak arches, a foot or ankle injury, arthritis, or a muscle or nervous system disease may all increase your likelihood of having flat feet. Tarsal coalition, a foot condition causing the fusion of bones in the feet, may also play a part in developing flat feet. Other common factors that are linked to flat feet include diabetes and obesity.

To manage the discomfort that may come with flat feet, we recommend that your practice exercises to help ease your pain. Heel cord stretches are a great way to stretch your Achilles tendon and help loosen up calf muscles that are often strained due to flat feet. Placing a golf ball under your foot and rolling it back and forth while seated is another great stretch, especially for your plantar fascia ligament.

When it comes to treating flat feet or fallen arches, it’s suggested you get plenty of rest. Frequently ice the affected area to help reduce swelling. Performing daily stretches are a great way to loosen up your muscles and relieve strain. It may also be beneficial to look into orthotics or shoe inserts to help relieve the pain.

If you’d like more information on how to treat discomfort you’re feeling because of flat feet, consult with a podiatrist for the best treatment options for your case.

Flat Feet (FAQs)

What are flat feet?
Flat feet are feet that do not have a visible arch in the center of the bottom of the foot while bearing weight. There are two main types of flat feet: flexible and rigid. Flexible flat feet have an arch, but it can only be seen when the feet are not bearing weight. Rigid flat feet do not have an arch regardless of whether they are bearing weight or not. Most children are born with flat feet and develop an arch over time. Others are born with flat feet and never develop an arch. It is also possible to have a fully developed arch that collapses over time due to wear and tear, injuries, or pregnancy.
What problems can flat feet cause?
In people who are born with flat feet and just never develop an arch, there are usually no significant problems caused by the flat feet. Sometimes the gait, or walking pattern, can be affected, with the feet rolling too far inwards while walking. Those who develop flat feet later in life are more likely to have symptoms, including foot pain in the heel or arch area and ankle pain. Flat feet can also make other foot problems such as bunions, hammertoes, and plantar fasciitis more likely.
How can I tell if I have flat feet?
Flat feet are diagnosed visually. If your foot is laying flat on the floor, bearing weight, and there is no visible arch, then you likely have flat feet. You can also do the wet paper test. Wet your feet and stand on a piece of paper, then remove your foot and look at the resulting footprints. If your footprint looks like a complete foot, this indicates that you most likely have flat feet.
Can flat feet be fixed?
If your flat feet are causing you pain or discomfort, your doctor can prescribe a variety of treatments. These may include wearing custom-made or over the counter orthotics, choosing more supportive shoes, doing foot stretches, or taking pain medications.

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