What does it mean to have flatfeet?
Flatfeet, also known as flatfoot, is a common condition where the arches on the inside of the feet collapse under pressure, causing the entire sole to touch the floor. This can lead to the feet pointing outward when standing or walking. Flatfeet may develop if the arches fail to form during childhood or later in life due to injury, obesity, or the natural aging process.
While flatfeet are often painless and don’t require treatment, they can sometimes cause discomfort, swelling, or mobility issues. If you experience foot pain, fatigue, or trouble standing for long periods, an evaluation from a specialist, such as Volunteer Podiatry, may be beneficial.
How to identify flatfeet
One of the simplest ways to determine if you have flatfeet is to observe your footprint. Wet your feet and step onto a flat surface, like a piece of paper or concrete. If your entire foot leaves an imprint without a visible arch, you likely have flatfeet.
Other signs include feet that tire easily, swelling along the inside of the ankle, or difficulty standing on your toes.
Are flatfeet a bad thing?
Flatfeet are not necessarily a problem – many people do not experience pain or mobility issues and can live an active lifestyle without complications.
However, for others, flatfoot can lead to overpronation, where the foot rolls inward excessively, causing strain on the ankles and knees. This can contribute to joint pain, poor posture, and an increased risk of injury.
What causes flatfeet?
Flatfeet can be present from birth if the arches never fully develop. However, they can also develop later in life due to various factors such as genetics, injury, aging, obesity and other medical conditions.
How to correct flatfeet
While flatfeet cannot always be cured, several treatment options can help alleviate symptoms and improve foot function.
At-home remedies include simple changes like choosing shoes with proper arch support, adding orthotic inserts, and exercises targeting the foot and calf muscles. Maintaining a healthy weight can also reduce strain on the feet and improve overall mobility.
In severe cases where pain persists despite conservative treatments, physical therapy or surgery may be recommended to realign or reconstruct the arch.
When is it time to see a doctor for flatfeet?
If flatfeet cause discomfort or affect your daily activities, professional treatment may be needed to prevent long-term complications. While many people with flatfeet don’t require medical intervention, you should consult a podiatrist if you experience:
- Persistent foot pain, swelling, or discomfort
- Difficulty standing, walking, or participating in physical activities
- Shoes wearing out unevenly because of excessive pronation
- Pain in the ankles, knees, hips, or lower back that may be linked to flatfoot posture
- Numbness or tingling in the feet, which could indicate nerve involvement
Volunteer Podiatry specializes in diagnosing and treating flatfeet with personalized solutions to improve comfort and mobility. If flatfeet are affecting your quality of life, schedule an evaluation today to explore the best treatment options for you.