All babies have flat feet at birth and develop arches by toddlerhood — by adulthood, two out of every ten adults still have flat feet. This often-overlooked issue can have far-reaching consequences on overall health and mobility, including causing a range of problems, from joint pain to musculoskeletal issues.
While many people with flat feet symptoms may not experience immediate foot discomfort, the long-term effects can be significant. The lack of proper arch support can lead to a cascade of problems, impacting not only the feet but also the ankles, knees, hips, and even the lower back. Over time, the misalignment caused by flat feet can result in muscle strain, joint pain, and reduced athletic performance. There are, however, numerous flat-foot treatment options available to help manage this condition and improve quality of life.
Read on to learn more about this potentially serious foot problem and advanced treatment options available from the top foot specialist in El Monte.
What are the Causes and Risk Factors for Flat Feet?
Genetically, some individuals are more prone to flat feet due to inherited foot structure. Developmental issues during childhood, such as the arch failing to form properly, can also lead to flat feet. Other risk factors include:
- Age-related factors, as the tendons and ligaments supporting the arch can weaken over time
- Certain medical conditions, including obesity, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis
- Injuries to the foot or ankle, particularly those affecting the posterior tibial tendon
- Hormonal changes and increased body weight caused by pregnancy
Additionally, occupations or activities that involve prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces can contribute to the development of flat feet over time.
How to Tell if You Have Flat Feet
One method to determine if you have flat feet is the water test. Simply wet your feet and walk on a dry, flat surface — if you see a complete imprint of your foot without a curved arch, you likely have flat feet.
Another indication is if your shoes wear out more quickly on the inside of the sole. Visually, when standing, you may notice that your ankles roll inward — a condition known as overpronation.
Having pain or discomfort in your feet, ankles, knees, hips, or lower back, especially after standing or walking for extended periods, can also be a sign. Additionally, if you struggle with balance or find it difficult to stand on your toes, these could be indicators of flat feet. While all of these can be signs of having flat feet, you should always see a podiatrist who can perform a thorough examination and get diagnostic imaging, such as an X-ray, for a definitive diagnosis.
Health Problems Related to Flat Feet
Lack of proper arch support can cause misalignment throughout the body, resulting in excessive stress on different body parts. Some issues that can be attributed to untreated flat feet include:
- Muscle and joint pain, usually caused by muscle strain in the legs, knees, hips, and lower back
- Tired, achy feet — especially after long periods of standing or activity
- Back problems because of abnormal gait or posture associated with flat feet
Additionally, flat feet can increase the risk of ankle sprains, shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and bunions. Over time, these issues can significantly impact mobility, comfort, and overall quality of life.
Advanced Treatment for Flat Feet
The most effective management of flat feet often comes from seeing a podiatrist who offers a range of non-invasive and surgical options tailored to each individual's needs. A podiatrist will assess the severity of the condition and its impact on overall health and mobility using different diagnostic tools, such as gait analysis or imaging tests. This can help determine a treatment plan that best treats your condition and improves your overall quality of life.
Depending on the severity and underlying causes of your flat feet, a podiatrist may recommend one or more of the following interventions:
- Specific foot exercises that can help strengthen the muscles and tendons that support the arch — potentially improving foot function and reducing discomfort
- Custom orthotics that provide additional arch support, redistribute pressure, and improve foot alignment
- Surgery to reconstruct the arch or repair damaged tendons if conservative treatments are ineffective
Other potential treatments a podiatrist might suggest include physical therapy, supportive footwear recommendations, weight management strategies, and temporary bracing or taping of the foot.
Where to Find the Best Foot Specialist in El Monte for Flat Feet Treatment
Working with a knowledgeable foot specialist in El Monte to develop a comprehensive management plan is the best way to alleviate flat foot symptoms, improve foot function, and prevent further complications.
Dr. Brittany Nguyen and her team of foot care experts are committed to delivering advanced podiatric services customized to the individual needs of each patient. At Mountain View Foot & Ankle, you’ll find a comprehensive range of treatment options, including conventional techniques and innovative procedures to treat all foot and ankle conditions, including flat feet.
Ready to walk comfortably with personalized flat-foot treatment from the best podiatrist in El Monte?
