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The design of the foot is strong, flexible and functional. Our feet need to be in order to bear the weight and pressures that are exerted on them throughout the day. For most people, their feet have a curve or an arch at the bottom that provides flexibility and shock absorption. But the five percent of Americans with flat feet, or a fallen arch, are at a disadvantage and will have more pain and stress on the feet and legs than individuals with normal arches. Flat feet can be present at birth or develop over years of wear and tear from standing, walking and running. The most common type is acquired, caused by overstretching a tendon that supports the arch. Another type is known as flexible flatfoot, occurring when the foot is flat when standing but returns to a normal arch in non-weight-bearing positions. Factors that can contribute to flatfeet into adulthood include obesity, arthritis, aging, injury, or excessive standing, walking and running. When to See a Podiatrist: Many adults with a fallen arch or flatfoot experience no pain or problems. A painful flatfoot, however, may be a sign of a congenital abnormality or an injury to the muscles and tendons of the foot. In severe case, flat feet may even be the cause of your back pain. If you experience difficulty or pain when walking or wearing shoes you should see your podiatrist and foot surgeon in Memphis for treatment. Other problems that accompany flatfoot and necessitate an appointment with your podiatrist include:
• Feet that tire easily or ache after standing for an extended period of time
• A lack of mobility in your foot and difficulty standing on your toes
• Sore, swollen feet; especially in the heel or arch of your foot
• Painful feet that prevent you from participating in sports and activities Relieving the Pain Caused by Flatfeet Luckily, most people with flatfeet rarely experience pain. However, if pain does occur see your Memphis podiatrist for an evaluation. The best way to treat flat feet is to determine the cause of the pain. An x-ray and exam performed by your podiatrist in Memphis can generally identify the problem. Talk with your podiatrist about the following treatment options: • Orthotics. Shoe inserts or custom-made orthotics from your podiatrist can help provide the best comfort and support for your foot.
• Shoe Modifications. Many times simply modifying your footwear can help relieve the pain caused by your flatfoot. Talk to your podiatrist about which shoes will provide the best support for your feet.
• Rest and Ice. Limit your activities and avoid standing on your feet for long periods of time. Ice your foot to reduce inflammation.
• Stretching exercises. Different stretches can help relieve foot pain and help strengthen muscles.
• Medications. To reduce inflammation and pain, your podiatrist may prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications.
• Surgery. When conservative treatments aren't effective, there are a variety of surgical procedures that may be considered to relieve pain and improve foot function. Whether you were born with flat feet or you acquired fallen arches over time, if your flatfeet are causing you problems, talk with your podiatrist and foot surgeon in Memphis about treatments for the pain. He can work with you determine the best techniques to eliminate the pain, improve your mobility and get you back to the activities you love.
Leading podiatrist and foot surgeon in Memphis, TN, Dr. Nathan Lucas, offers comprehensive foot care in a comfortable, state-of-the-art facility. Staying abreast of the latest podiatric procedures and treatments, Dr. Lucas provides an array of foot care and foot surgery including treatment for toenail fungus, plantar fasciitis and heel pain in Memphis.
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