Treating “Flat Feet” With Orthotics

You’ve probably heard of the condition known as “flat feet,” and a lot of people actually blame general aches and pains in their arches on this often overused term. The fact is, flat feet is a medical diagnosis that happens to be so much more than occasional discomfort that accompanies walking long distances or following strenuous activity.

So what is it, really? If you’re experiencing pain in your heels, arches, ankles, knees, hips, or even your lower back, flat feet (also known as fallen arches) could be to blame. Since this condition manifests itself in ways that mimics other conditions, people often self-diagnose themselves without ever seeing a medical specialist. It all comes down to the shape of your arches. A “normal” arch curves upward in the middle of a person’s foot and is stabilized by tendons and ligaments, and the sole of your foot shouldn’t completely touch the ground. When your arches are collapsed, “fallen,” or flat, your sole will completely touch the ground and makes it painful or problematic when it comes to walking or standing. This is important to treat because your entire skeletal system risks misalignment and permanent deformation, damage, and instability. Your feet really are your foundation, and sometimes it takes a special orthotic to treat them.

What symptoms will you experience with flat feet? The tendons and ligaments in your lower body will weaken over time, causing substantial pain. Some individuals are born with abnormal arches, while other causes are a result of environmental stress on one’s feet. If not properly treated with orthotics, sufferers experience weak muscles, difficulty standing or walking, and an increased likelihood of sprains, broken bones, and overall injury.

If you suspect that you may need custom fit shoe inserts, foot orthoses, or another custom orthotic specifically designed to treat flat feet, New Hope Prosthetics & Orthotics can help. Please contact us today to make an appointment, and you’ll be literally one step closer to becoming pain-free!