Fallen arches, better known as flat feet, are more common than you might realize. While many people have flat feet and don’t even know it, others are dealing with regular aches and pains in their feet due to fallen arches. If you think this could be you, a podiatrist can quickly diagnose this problem and provide you with effective strategies to keep fallen arches from also causing you pain.
What are some complications of fallen arches?
Some people have fallen arches but never experience any issues; however, sometimes fallen arches can lead to,
- Foot, heel, and arch pain, particularly when standing or walking
- Muscle pain
- Leg cramps
- Shooting leg pains that start at the soles of the feet
- Swelling of the feet or tenderness in the soles
Flat feet can also increase your risk for,
- Plantar fasciitis
- Shin splints
- Bone spurs
- Arthritis
- Bunions
- Lower back pain, hip pain, or knee pain
If you are experiencing pain with movement, trouble walking, or balancing issues, it’s important that you turn to a podiatrist to find out whether flat feet could be to blame.
What causes fallen arches?
Arches develop around the age of 2 or 3 years old; however, sometimes arches never develop. Genetics can increase your risk for flat feet. Sometimes injuries or other foot problems can cause flat feet to develop as an adult. Certain conditions can also increase your risk for flat feet including,
- Diabetes
- Cerebral palsy
- Achilles tendonitis
- High blood pressure
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Rheumatoid arthritis
How are fallen arches treated?
If fallen arches do not cause any problems then you don’t really need to do anything about them; however, it is important to recognize whether certain issues you’re dealing with could be the result of fallen arches. If so, your podiatrist may recommend a wide range of nonsurgical treatment options including,
- Nonsteroid anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy
- Orthotics and arch support
- Stretching exercises
- Bracing
- Custom shoes
If your flat feet are causing you to deal with easily achy, sore, and fatigued feet, know that a podiatrist can help you get your foot problems back on track with the proper care. Call your podiatrist today!