Did you know that it is fairly common to have flat feet? These may be hereditary, and many people are born with flat feet, which do not usually cause pain. However, when the arches of the feet drop later in life, this is more likely to cause pain when walking or difficulties with posture. Here, we’ll take a look at the causes and symptoms of flat feet and consider the solutions that are available to you.
Managing a condition such as flat feet can be challenging, especially if you experience leg or back pain as a result, but there are many ways to address these issues, and our expert team at Foot Solutions can help. We offer free foot assessments that can help to identify foot problems and alleviate the pain these may cause.
What are Flat Feet?
Flat feet is the name given to the condition in which the arch of the foot is very low or has collapsed completely, so that the whole of the sole is in contact with the ground when you are standing and moving around.
Some people are born with flat feet, while others may develop flat feet as a result of injury or lifestyle factors. The latter is more likely to create problems in your daily life, as it changes the structure of the foot, and this causes changes throughout the body. However, both conditions can be treated, and support can be provided to alleviate pain and improve the alignment of the feet.
What Causes Flat Feet?
Many factors increase the likelihood of flat feet developing, including:
- Genetics. Some people are born with naturally low arches or flat feet, and this can often run in families.
- Changes in the foot structure. The feet are complex in design, and they can change over time as the tendons are stretched and the arches become weaker. This can cause the arches of the feet to collapse later in life.
- Injury. The structure of the foot is designed so that the tendons, ligaments and muscles work together to support the arches and the weight of the body. Common injuries that can lead to flattened arches include sprained ankles and damage to the tendons. Injuries such as this are commonly caused by running and walking in unsupportive shoes, and these can put additional pressure on the arches, which may collapse as a result.
- Being overweight. Carrying additional body weight can lead to flat feet because it places extra stress on the arches, and this can cause the structures that support them to collapse. However, your personal fitness at any age is more important than the numbers on the scales, so it is important to consider this when making changes to your lifestyle.
- Pregnancy. When pregnant, the body goes through a number of changes, including hormonal changes that can affect the tendons and ligaments in the body. Most people also put on weight during a pregnancy, which can put extra pressure on the feet and lead to collapsed arches. This may be temporary or may permanently change the structure of the feet.
- Certain medical conditions. There are some medical conditions that can increase the risk of damage to the arches, including rheumatoid arthritis and nerve disorders. People with diabetes are also much more likely to experience problems with their feet and are at higher risk of fallen arches.
Symptoms of Flat Feet
Some people may have flat feet for the whole of their lives and never experience any pain as a result, but many people with flat feet live with pain in the feet, often in the arch or the heel, or even in the ankle, which may be more prone to swelling. If you have flat feet, you may find that your feet are exceptionally tired or achy after standing or walking, and your shoes may wear unevenly. You might also find it hard to stand on the tips of your toes, and you might notice pain in the knees, hips or lower back, due to the difficulties in finding the correct alignment.
If flat feet are not treated when they begin to cause pain, it is more likely that you will develop related conditions, including plantar fasciitis and shin splints, which are very common amongst runners. You may also be more likely to develop bunions or hammertoes, or arthritis in the foot or ankle, as well as problems with your posture that can be harmful to your health.
Solutions for Flat Feet
If you have flat feet without symptoms, you may not require treatment. However, if you find that flat feet are having an impact on your daily life, there are many ways to combat this. These include:
- Supportive shoes. Wearing the right shoes to support your feet can alleviate foot pain and help to align the feet correctly. We recommend shoes with good arch support, firm midsoles, and a good amount of cushioning to protect and support your feet, and shoes that are well-suited to your unique foot shape will offer the best results.
- Custom-made orthotics. Using custom-made orthotics can help to redistribute the bodyweight throughout the feet and support fallen arches, which can make a big difference to the way your body feels.
- Lifestyle changes. If you are experiencing any foot pain, including pain related to flat feet, you may find that changes to your lifestyle help you to improve your fitness and relieve the pain. Managing your weight and using specific stretches to strengthen your feet and legs will help to improve stability and reduce strain on the tendons. Arch lifts, toe curls and calf stretches can all help you to feel better.
- Medical intervention. If you experience severe pain due to fallen arches, you may be offered steroid injections or anti-inflammatory medications. In extreme cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the tendons or reconstruct the arch. You may also be able to access physiotherapy, which can help to resolve arch pain.
You should see a foot specialist if you notice ongoing pain in your feet or if your pain is getting worse, as well as if your feet are swelling or limiting your mobility. For most people, working with our expert team at Foot Solutions can increase comfort and relieve the pain of fallen arches.
Find Great Footwear at Foot Solutions In Ireland
Here at Foot Solutions, we know that the health of your feet can transform the way you feel in your daily life, and we can help you find the best options for your lifestyle and your budget. As well as custom insoles and orthotics, we have an extensive range of comfortable and stylish footwear, including sandals, work shoes, trainers and boots.
Come in and visit us in your local store, or make an appointment online for your free foot assessment.
