Finding Relief for Your Flat Feet

Flat feet are more common than you may realize. And, frankly, the condition doesn't have to be problematic. However, if you're feet are getting flatter and more painful, see your podiatrist in Huntington, NY, Dr. William Weissinger. He treats people of all ages whose lifestyles are impacted by fallen arches. He can help you, too.

Why do people get flat feet?

For some individuals, flat feet are inherited. In other words, this particular foot structure can run in families. Plus, it's obvious from early childhood that there is no visible space between the arch of the foot and the floor. Feet may flatten with advancing age, an overstretched posterior tibial tendon at the back of the foot, or increasing body weight.

Most people experience few to no symptoms resulting from their flat feet. Others, however, see changes in their gait, typically overpronation in which the foot rolls toward the midline with every step.

This gait issue overstretches the plantar fascia, the connective tissue which spans the arch. Pain, particularly in the area of the heel, results. Untreated, flat feet can become arthritic, say experts at the Cleveland Clinic.

Finding relief for flat feet

See your podiatrist in his Huntington, NY, office and tell him the symptoms you observe. Dr. Weissinger will review your medical history, do a hands-on exam, and may order X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI to view the internal structure of your feet.

Most people with fallen arches respond well to some easy, but effective, interventions, including:

• Strengthening and flexibility exercises (heel cord stretching and golf ball roll are highly recommended by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons)
• Properly fitting shoes with good arch support
• Custom-made orthotics to correct overpronation
• Weight loss
• NSAIDs for pain relief
• Rest and ice to the affected area
  
  

Feel better

Flat feet not only cause foot pain but your knees, back, and hips may ache, too. So, don't wait. If you've got symptoms of fallen arches, please contact Dr. William Weissinger for a consultation at his Huntington, NY, office. He's only too happy to help. Phone this experienced podiatrist at (631) 271-8500.