Flat Feet Specialist

What are flat feet?

Flat feet means the arches in your feet are flat, and the entire sole of your foot touches the floor when you stand. 

Flat feet is a common condition that may occur due to poor development of the arch during childhood, a foot injury, or age. Flat feet rarely cause pain, but it may affect the alignment of your legs and cause pain in your ankles and knees. 

What are the types of flat feet?

You may develop flat feet from many causes. The types include:

Flat feet adult-acquired

In adults, flat feet may develop from posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD), which occurs from inflammation or overstretching of the posterior tibial tendon in the foot. 

The posterior tibial tendon plays an essential role in arch support, and PTTD often results in flattening of the foot. 

Flexible flat feet

Flexible flat feet is the most common type and typically begins in childhood or adolescence and continues into adulthood. It occurs in both feet and progresses in severity as you get older.

The term “flexible” means that while the foot is flat when standing, the arch returns when not standing. 

As the deformity worsens, the soft tissues in the arch stretch, tear, and become inflamed. 

Rigid flat feet

Rigid flat feet is a type of pediatric flat feet. The term “rigid” means the arch is always stiff and flat, whether standing or not. 

In children, rigid flat feet may cause various symptoms, such as pain, awkwardness when walking, reduced energy when participating in physical activities, or outward tilting of the heel.  

How are flat feet treated?

The podiatry team at Sarasota Foot Care Center takes a holistic approach to foot care and develops individualized treatment plans for flat feet based on type, symptoms, age, activity level, and medical history. 

Treatment for flat feet may include:

• Activity modification
• Orthotic devices
• Bracing
• Immobilization
• Physical therapy
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Shoe modifications
• Weight loss

In some cases, your podiatrist may recommend surgery to correct the arch and relieve the symptoms. The foot and ankle surgeons at Sarasota Foot Care Center perform cutting-edge procedures, so you get the best outcomes.

Surgical treatments may include repairing the tendon, realigning the bones in your foot, or both. Your foot and ankle surgeon determines the best approach for your specific case. 

Your flat feet may place extra strain on your feet, ankles, and knees. To schedule an evaluation to improve your flat feet, contact Sarasota Foot Care Center by phone or book online today.