Flat Feet Specialist

What are flat feet?

If you have flat feet, it means the soles of your feet make direct contact with the ground. Whether you’re sitting or standing, there’s no visible arch. 

Everyone is born with flat feet, but most people develop arches by the time they’re six. Experts aren’t sure why, but some people don’t have arches. Though this typically isn’t a problem, for some people, it results in pain and mobility issues. 

What are the types of flat feet?

At Gentle Foot and Ankle Care, the team treats several types of flat feet, including:

Flexible flat feet

If you have flexible flat feet, it might look like you have arches when sitting, but they disappear as soon as you stand up. Flexible flat feet develop during adolescence and get worse with age. They're caused by the tendons and ligaments in your feet stretching and swelling.

Rigid flat feet

If you have rigid flat feet, there’s no visible arch. Rigid flat feet often cause chronic pain. You might also find it difficult to flex or stretch your feet. 

Fallen arches

Fallen arches are a type of flat feet that affects adults. It occurs when your foot’s arch suddenly collapses, causing your foot to turn outward. The most common causes of fallen arches are inflammation or a ruptured tendon.

Vertical talus

Vertical talus is a congenital condition that prevents arches from forming. It occurs when a baby is born with their talus bone out of position. 

How are flat feet diagnosed?

To diagnose flat feet, your Gentle Foot and Ankle Care provider asks about your symptoms and reviews your health history. Then, they have you remove your shoes and socks and physically examine your feet. 

Your provider also has you stand up and walk around the exam room. Flat feet are visible to the eye, so it’s easy to determine if you’re at risk.

How are flat feet treated?

At Gentle Foot and Ankle Care, the team treats flat feet in children and adults. Depending on the type of flat feet you have, they might recommend:

Custom orthotics

Custom orthotics are heel pads or inserts designed to support the unique structure of your feet. They require a prescription and are manufactured by a laboratory that captures 3D scans of your feet and ankles.  

Reconstructive surgery

If orthotics don’t ease your symptoms, the team might recommend reconstructive surgery. Using special tools and small incisions, they can realign the bones and soft tissues in your feet, relieving pain and improving your mobility.

Supportive shoes

Sometimes wearing a pair of different shoes is enough to ease pain caused by flat feet. Following an exam, your provider can make recommendations that align with your needs.

To learn more about the treatment of flat feet, make an appointment at Gentle Foot and Ankle Care by calling the office or clicking the online booking feature today.