Unveiling the Secrets of Flat Feet

When you stand, you might notice that there are small gaps under the inner parts of your feet because the arches slightly lift off the ground. However, for some people, these arches are more flat and the soles of their feet rest completely on the floor. This condition is called flat feet. If your flat feet aren’t causing any pain or discomfort, you don’t need to worry about treatment. But if you’re experiencing symptoms, there are exercises and simple devices that can help ease the discomfort.

If flat feet are causing you trouble, a good podiatrist in Midtown can help. Here’s what you should know about flat feet:

### Symptoms of Flat Feet
The most common symptom is foot pain, caused by strained ligaments or muscles. People with flat feet may also experience joint pain in the hips and knees due to abnormal stress. This pain can affect various parts of the body such as the hips, knees, lower legs, calves, arches of the feet, and even the lower back. Flat feet can also lead to uneven weight distribution, which makes shoes wear out faster and unevenly, potentially leading to more injuries.

### Causes of Flat Feet
Several factors can cause flat feet, including:

– Ankle or foot injuries
– Arthritis
– Damage or dysfunction of the posterior tibial tendons
– Naturally weak arches, where the arches appear when not standing and flatten when weight is applied
– Genetic factors, as it can be inherited
– Muscle or nervous system disorders like muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, or spina bifida

### Diagnosis and Treatment
If you have flat feet but no pain or discomfort, seeing a doctor isn’t necessary. However, you should consult a podiatrist if:

– The condition developed recently
– You have pain in your lower limbs, ankles, or feet
– Symptoms don’t improve with proper shoes
– Your feet feel heavy, rigid, and difficult to move

Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam of your feet and observing how you walk or stand. Treatment may include physical therapy to reduce symptoms and prevent them from getting worse. Wearing supportive, well-fitting shoes can also help. Your doctor might recommend using orthotics or even an ankle brace.

### The Takeaway
Flat feet are a common issue that can arise for various reasons and cause different symptoms. Fortunately, it’s a manageable condition with the right help from a podiatrist. If you’re in New York and need assistance managing your flat feet, consider visiting City Podiatrist for qualified care.