Flat Feet

Up to 37% of the population has flat feet to some extent. If flat feet cause you pain or mobility problems, turn to Prime Foot and Ankle Care in South Brunswick, New Jersey. Experienced podiatrist Nrupa Shah, DPM, offers treatments that reduce discomfort and other symptoms caused by flat feet to optimize foot health. Schedule an evaluation by calling the Prime Foot and Ankle Care office or booking a visit online today. 

What are flat feet?

Flat feet is a condition in which you don’t have an arch (space) in the bottom of your feet when you stand up. Foot arches often form early during childhood, but sometimes they don’t develop or collapse (fallen arches) later in life. If your flat feet cause pain or problems walking, see Dr. Shah for an evaluation. She offers effective treatments that keep you on your feet pain-free. 

What are the symptoms of flat feet?

Flat feet symptoms include:

• Little or no arches in the soles of your feet
• Foot pain
• Problems walking
• Soles of your feet are flat (touch the ground) when you stand
• Bone on the inner side of your foot sticks out
• Pain after walking
• Ankle discomfort
• Shin splints
• Gait abnormalities (abnormal walking pattern) 
• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Knee, hip, or lower back pain

Foot arches are made of connective tissues and bones, acting like shock absorbers as you walk. They help you adapt to walking on uneven surfaces and protect tissues in the soles of your feet. Mildly flat feet may not cause any symptoms. 

Untreated flat feet might increase your risk of ankle instability, ankle sprains, repetitive strain injuries, and foot and ankle arthritis. 

What are the risk factors for flat feet?

Flat feet risk factors include:

• Family history of flat feet
• Down syndrome
• Cerebral palsy
• Clubfoot
• Other genetic abnormalities
• Chronic tendinitis
• Diabetes-related nerve damage
• Charcot foot caused by nerve damage 
• Arthritis
• Foot ligament injuries
• Foot fractures

Flat feet may always be present or develop with aging. Dr. Shah specializes in treating injuries of the foot and ankle, as well as flat feet and numerous other chronic conditions. 

How are flat feet diagnosed?

Dr. Shah diagnoses flat feet by examining your toes and feet during a physical exam. She assesses the structure of your feet when you stand up and walk. Dr. Shah also discusses your medical history, symptoms, treatment preferences, and goals. She may recommend on-site foot X-rays to further evaluate your feet and determine which treatment is the most appropriate.

How are flat feet treated?

Treating flat feet may consist of:

• Custom orthotics (shoe inserts)
• Footwear changes
• Medications for pain
• Physical therapy
• Surgery

Flat feet often don’t require treatment, unless they cause pain or mobility problems and negatively affect your quality of life. Maintaining a healthy body weight can help ease pain caused by flat feet. Follow up with Dr. Shah to ensure an effective, long-lasting outcome.

Schedule a flat feet evaluation at Prime Foot and Ankle Care by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.