Flat foot

Although flatfeet are common in young children, adults with flatfeet could suffer from many symptoms and severities of the condition. The arch in flat footed individuals could be partially or totally collapsed, thus causing a variation in the symptoms. Since the flat feet are typically due to overpronation of the foot, the ankle will also suffer. One easy way to tell if you have flat feet is to sit your shoes on a table. If they lean in towards each other, you could be overpronating.

Flat feet may not cause any pain or symptoms in many people, however if pain begins in feet, knees or your back, you should have your feet evaluated.

Symptoms of Flat feet:

• Flattened appearance on X-Ray evaluation
• Pain in arches, ankles, knees or back
• Other symptoms vary depending on cause of the collapsed arch

Treatments of Flat feet:

• First off, you must consider what is causing your flatfeet
• Bracing to support tendons during activities
• Orthotics to support the arch
• Anti-inflammatories (both steroidal and non-steroidal options)
• Icing
• Physical therapy to strengthen weakened tendons
• When all conservative treatments fail, your podiatrist could consider surgical correction