As the weather begins to cool down, many of us are seeking fresh, crisp air, and going for a walk is the perfect way to do so. Walking for long periods might be uncomfortable for some, but for others, it can be painful and therefore avoided. Flat feet may be one of the reasons for your foot pain.

Causes

Flat foot occurs when the arches under your feet aren’t visible when you’re standing. Normally this can be seen in infants who don’t develop arches until later on. However, some adults retain flat feet, either from their genetic makeup or from years of wear and tear. Below are some of the conditions that can put you at risk for developing flat feet:

• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Arthritis
• Aging
• Injury to the foot or ankle
• Nerve issues

Symptoms

It’s fairly common for patients to not experience any pain. Either way, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms in case you find yourself developing any:

• Hip, leg, or back pain
• Swollen ankles
• Pain or achiness in the arches or heels
• Leg cramps
• Stiffness in the calves, hips, or lower back
• Difficulty standing on the tips of your toes
• Pain when walking

Treatment

Because flat foot doesn’t always cause pain, treatment isn’t always necessary. However, if you have to limit your activity due to any discomfort, it’s recommended you do the following:

• Anti-inflammatory medication, like Advil
• Custom orthotics
• Supportive shoes
• Icing your feet or ankles
• Physical therapy
• Stretching
• Taping
• Braces

In rare and severe cases, surgery may be suggested. If you’re experiencing any pain or discomfort, call your local podiatrist.

You can count on the Foot & Ankle Specialists, PC foot doctors, to care for your feet using a full range of conservative and surgical therapies. Our expert team, including board-certified podiatrists Dr. Scott E. Hughes, Dr. Greg P. Vogt, and Dr. Christine I. Tumele, serves patients of all ages with state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment technologies, including on-site digital x-ray, and ultrasound, diabetic shoes, and digital scanning for custom orthotics. Please contact our office to schedule a consultation. We offer house calls Monday through Thursday.