Flat Feet

Flat feet means you have no visible foot arch when you stand, affecting foot function and weight distribution when standing, walking, or running. Though not always a serious health issue, if you have flat feet that cause pain, the team of podiatrists at Montgomery Podiatry in Huntingdon Valley, Pennsylvania, can help. They can make recommendations for proper footwear and orthotics to improve foot support. Call the office or schedule your flat feet appointment online today. 

What are flat feet?

Flat feet, also called flatfoot, means you have no visible arch (space between the floor and the bottom of your foot) when you stand. Your foot arch evenly distributes body weight throughout the foot. If you have flat feet, your feet don't have this support.

Most people with flat feet have no problems or pain. However, if you have flat feet that cause pain, the team at Montgomery Podiatry can help.

What are the types of flat feet?

There are several types of flat feet. Each type has a different cause and creates unique problems. Flat feet types include:

Flexible flat feet

Most people with flat feet have flexible flat feet. With this type, you have an arch when sitting but not when standing. Flexible flat feet worsens over time, stretching the tendons and ligaments in the foot.

Rigid flat feet

Rigid flat feet means you have no visible arch when sitting or standing. With this type of flatfoot, you may develop foot pain or have a hard time flexing or moving your foot from side to side.

Fallen arch

Fallen arch, also called adult-acquired flat feet, is when the arch suddenly collapses. This type of flatfoot causes the foot to turn inward, affecting foot function and gait.

When should I seek podiatry care for flat feet?

You should schedule an appointment with the team at Montgomery Podiatry if flat feet causes any type of discomfort or affects your ability to walk. Flat feet worsens over time, and getting care early may prevent or delay future problems.

During your visit, your podiatrist reviews your symptoms and examines your feet. They also have you stand and walk and may take X-rays to check for foot damage.

What treatments can help flat feet?

Treatment for flat feet depends on the type and the severity of the symptoms. Initially, the skilled podiatrists recommend conservative care such as:

• Activity modification
• Change in footwear
• Custom orthotics
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Immobilization with a foot cast or walking boot
• Physical therapy
• Ankle foot orthoses (AFO) device (to modify your walk and support your arches)

If conservative care fails to improve your foot pain, the team at Montgomery Podiatry may suggest surgery to correct your flat feet. They customize your surgical plan to get you the best outcome.

To get help for flat feet, call Montgomery Podiatry or book an appointment online today.