Know the Signs and Symptoms of Flat Feet

Flat feet, also called fallen arches, is a condition in which your arches are collapsed, and your entire sole touches the floor when standing. It’s a normal but frustrating condition if you don’t have the right support. People with flat feet may shift their weight when walking or standing for long periods because the pressure can cause discomfort.

If left untreated, flat feet can lead to more serious foot problems. Some cases can result in permanent deformity and reduced mobility. Many are unable to walk comfortably in their favorite pairs of shoes.

So, how do you know if you have flat feet? Board-certified podiatric surgeon Dr. Suzanne Levine can review the signs and symptoms when you come in for a foot assessment in New York City, NY. The specialists at Millennium Podiatry can make nonsurgical and surgical recommendations to treat fallen arches and reduce foot pain.

Flexible versus rigid flat feet

Millennium Podiatry can address both kinds of flat feet, flexible and rigid. With flexible flat feet, you may have normal-looking arches when sitting, but the arches collapse again as soon as you stand or walk around. Rigid flat feet cause the arch to remain in the same flat position no matter what.

Flexible flat feet are more common and usually don’t cause pain. Individuals with rigid flat feet are more likely to experience pain around the heels or arches when running and performing other activities. In either case, asymptomatic patients don’t need to seek treatment. However, people who avoid day-to-day activities or wearing specific shoes due to discomfort may require the help of a podiatrist like Dr. Levine.

What are the symptoms of flat feet?

Patients with flat feet normally complain about foot pain that worsens during certain activities. Some signs and symptoms of flat feet in New York City, NY, include:

• Collapsed arches

• Arch or heel pain

• Swelling in the ankles

• Trouble standing on your tiptoes

Fallen arches can have long-term negative effects on your feet, gait, and overall posture. Because symptoms of flat feet can only get worse, Dr. Levine should perform an evaluation as soon as you notice any of the above symptoms.

What happens during flat feet treatment?

Millennium Podiatry diagnoses fallen arches during a comprehensive examination in our office. During this time, we may ask about your lifestyle habits, including how many hours you spend on your feet and what kind of shoes you wear. Our goal for flat feet treatment is to restore your normal function and reduce foot pain.

Wearing comfortable shoes with arch supports is one way to alleviate discomfort. This can minimize pressure and help distribute weight in all the right places. We may also suggest resting the foot, applying a cold compress to the affected area, or anti-inflammatory medications. Severe cases of fallen arches may require heel bone realignment, repairing or adjusting a tendon, or fusing bones in the foot or ankle.

Meet an experienced podiatrist

There’s no doubt that people with flat feet need a little extra support to avoid more serious foot conditions later in life. If you want help with fallen arches, meet with board-certified podiatric surgeon Dr. Suzanne Levine or one of the professionals at Millennium Podiatry for a consultation. Our specialists in New York City, NY, can make a custom flat feet treatment plan for your flat feet so you can return to normal activities in comfort. Contact us to get started today.