Flat Feet Specialist

What are flat feet?

If you have flat feet, the arches of your feet are either very shallow or almost nonexistent. When you look at your feet from the side, it might not appear that any part of your foot is lifted off the ground. In most cases, this is completely natural and doesn’t pose an issue. However, if it causes discomfort, you might want to explore treatments. 

Most people with flat feet don’t experience any symptoms. However, you might notice:

• Pain or discomfort
• Swelling in your feet or legs
• Feet that point outward when you stand
• Shoe wear and tear in specific areas
  
  

You might have been born with flat feet, or you might have developed them because of an injury or another health condition. Arthritis and other degenerative conditions can cause the arches of your feet to fall over time. 

What are the complications of flat feet?

Flat feet can lead to complications with your ankles and legs. The lack of an arch affects your weight distribution and balance, which can lead to aches and pains in unexpected regions. 

Flat feet can also contribute to or worsen other conditions affecting your feet and ankles. If you have flat feet, you might notice increasing symptoms associated with:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Corns and calluses
• Tendinitis
• Shin splints
  
  

If your feet or ankles are consistently painful or uncomfortable, you should consult with the experts at Permian Basin Foot and Ankle for a diagnosis and possible treatment. They might ask to look at your shoes to look for areas of heavy wear and tear.

What are my treatment options for flat feet?

If you arrive at Permian Basin Foot and Ankle with lots of pain or discomfort associated with flat feet, the team might recommend certain imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasound imaging to look for tendon injuries, joint complications, and other contributors. A treatment plan for painful or uncomfortable flatfeet might include:

• Custom orthotic devices
• Stretching and exercises
• Supportive footwear
• Foot and ankle braces
• Rest 
• Weight loss
• Physical therapy
• Over-the-counter pain relief medications
  
  

Surgery isn’t a treatment for flatfeet alone, but the team at Permian Basin Foot and Ankle might recommend it if you have a tendon tear or other musculoskeletal injury contributing to your flat feet. 

If you have flat feet that cause pain in your feet, ankles, legs, or hips, call Permian Basin Foot and Ankle or book an appointment online today.