Fallen arches can cause pain in the feet and make it difficult to engage in the activities that you enjoy. When you look at the bottom of your feet, there should be a visible arch. That arch is created by the tendons in your feet, which pull to form an arch.
When the tendons do not pull as they should, fallen arches can develop. Fallen arches cause the feet to look flat. Take a look at your footprint; can you see the arch? Or is the entire shape of your foot visible?
If you can see the whole shape of your foot, you may have fallen arches. This is common in children, but the arch usually develops normally with age. Adults who have fallen arches can be experience significant pain as a result
What Causes Fallen Arches?
A variety of situations can increase the likelihood of developing fallen arches, including the following:
- Genetic abnormality
- Torn or stretched tendons
- Damage to the posterior tibial tendon
- Bone fractures
- Dislocation of bones
- Nerve damage
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Other medical conditions.
Several other risk factors can increase your risk of developing fallen arches, including:
- Diabetes
- Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Aging.
What Are the Symptoms of Fallen Arches?
In some cases, fallen arches are asymptomatic and cause no pain. A person might have fallen arches and not even be aware of it. In other cases, though, fallen arches can be quite painful. Patients may experience the following symptoms:
- Foot pain, especially in the arches or heels
- Leg or back pain
- Feet feel tired quickly
- Swelling in the feet
- Difficulty moving the feet
What Are the Treatment Options for Fallen Arches?
If your fallen arches are asymptomatic, then you may not need to seek treatment. However, it is a good idea to wear supportive shoes and orthotic inserts to help prevent pain and problems from developing. If you currently have pain caused by fallen arches, consider these treatment options:
- Elevating the feet
- Applying ice to ease discomfort and reduce swelling
- Rest
- Exercises to stretch the feet
- Physical therapy
- Medication, such as anti-inflammatories (as advised by your doctor/pharmacist)
- Steroid injections
- Orthotic devices for your shoes
Orthotic devices (custom arch supports) can help to relieve current pain as well as preventing future pain. Measures like medication and ice will help to ease pain after it happens, but these devices can help to prevent pain from occurring at all.
This is a smart and simple preventative measure that helps many people who have fallen arches to avoid pain and keep their condition from getting worse. In severe situations, surgery may be recommended to repair fallen arches.
You can also minimize your symptoms by reducing your risk factors for fallen arches. Keep your weight in a healthy range, and try to lose even a small amount of weight if you are overweight.
Even a small weight loss can make a big impact on the amount of pressure that is placed on your feet. If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar under control. Losing weight will also help to keep diabetes in check. Avoid high-impact activities, like running and tennis. Stick with low-impact exercises, like swimming or cycling, instead.
If you have fallen arches, you need arch supports for your shoes. These can help to prevent pain and manage your condition. Visit Foot Solutions UK to learn more about the options. We can custom fit an arch support just for you to make sure that you are as comfortable as possible. Stop by Foot Solutions UK to learn more about our services today.
