Flat feet, or fallen arches, means that you have either no arches in your feet or that the arches are very low. Weak muscles, abnormal bone development, and genetics can all play a role in the development of flat feet. While some people may realize that they have flat feet, many others do not. Fortunately, your podiatrist, Dr. Leonard Vekkos of Foot & Ankle Wellness Center in Woodridge, IL, can diagnose this issue and help determine if you could benefit from flat foot treatment.
What are the symptoms of flat feet?
While there are many people out there walking around with flat feet, some of them won’t even notice it or realize they have it. In other cases, however, some people can't deal with the pain, achiness, cramping, or spasms that sometimes accompanies the condition. This pain may even limit your ability to perform simple movements.
Should flat feet be treated?
If you aren’t experiencing pain or other symptoms, then treatment won’t be necessary; however, if you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above and it’s interfering with your day-to-day activities, then it’s time to schedule an appointment with your Woodridge, IL, podiatrist.
Additionally, while the symptoms you experience now many seem so minor that you don’t need treatment, untreated flat feet can possibly lead to further issues later on in life. This is because flat feet place excessive stress and pressure on the joints of the feet, ankles, and legs. Consequently, ankle arthritis, knee problems, and even stress fractures are more common in those with flat feet.
Flat feet and obesity can also place more stress on your feet. Losing the excess weight (even ten pounds) can make a world of difference if you are dealing with severe foot pain.
How are flat feet treated?
Flat feet can usually be managed with supportive footwear and/or custom orthotics to take pressure off the arches and reduce pain when walking around. Sometimes your podiatrist may recommend bracing the foot for further support.
Flat feet caused by arthritis will require medication to address the arthritis and to slow its progression. Problems such as severe joint damage or a ruptured tendon often require surgery.
Concerned? Give us a call
Dealing with foot pain or other symptoms of flat feet? Foot & Ankle Wellness Center in Woodridge, IL, provides comprehensive foot care to patients of all ages, from children to seniors. Don’t let flat feet affect your routine—dial (630) 852-8522 today!