Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, are a common condition where the arches of the feet either do not develop properly or collapse over time. For many people, flat feet don’t cause major issues, but for others, the condition can lead to pain, discomfort, and other health problems. Keep reading to learn when you should see a podiatrist in Los Angeles for flat feet or fallen arches, the symptoms to look out for, possible causes, and the treatments available.
What Are Flat Feet and Fallen Arches?
Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet, which normally form a curved space between the ball and heel, either fail to develop or collapse. When a person has flat feet, the entire sole of their foot touches the ground when they stand. This can be present in one or both feet.
In children, it’s common to have flat feet as their arches are not fully developed. As they grow, the arches usually form naturally. However, for some people, the arches never fully develop, resulting in a lifelong condition. In adults, flat feet can develop due to age, injury, or other factors.
Fallen arches are similar but refer specifically to arches that have collapsed after developing normally. This can happen due to wear and tear, injury, or specific medical conditions. When the arches fall, the foot’s structure changes, and this can cause problems with walking and standing, leading to discomfort or pain in the feet, ankles, knees, and even the lower back.
Also Read: Maximize Your Performance with Proper Foot Care: A Runner’s Guide
Signs and Symptoms of Flat Feet and Fallen Arches
While flat feet or fallen arches do not always cause discomfort, they can lead to various symptoms and complications that should not be ignored. Some common symptoms to watch for include:
- Foot Pain: This is one of the most common symptoms associated with flat feet or fallen arches. The pain often occurs in the arch or heel area and can worsen with prolonged standing, walking, or running.
- Swelling: Swelling along the inside of the ankle or arch may occur due to the extra strain placed on tendons and muscles supporting the foot.
- Tired or Achy Feet: People with flat feet may experience fatigue in their feet after standing for long periods or engaging in physical activity.
- Changes in Walking Patterns: Flat feet can lead to abnormal walking patterns, such as overpronation, where the foot rolls inward excessively when walking. This can contribute to pain in the knees and hips.
- Back and Leg Pain: Due to the misalignment of the feet, flat feet can affect other parts of the body, including the knees, hips, and lower back. Many people with flat feet experience pain in these areas due to the way their feet impact their posture and gait.
- Difficulty Standing on Tiptoes: If you find it challenging to stand on your tiptoes or experience pain while doing so, it could be a sign of flat feet or fallen arches.
Also Read: Finding the Right Specialist: Who to Consult for Foot Pain?
When to See a Podiatrist in Los Angeles for Flat Feet or Fallen Arches
Not everyone with flat feet or fallen arches requires medical treatment. However, if you experience any of the following signs, it’s important to consult a podiatrist, a specialist in foot and ankle conditions:
1. Persistent Foot Pain
If you have ongoing foot pain, especially in the arch or heel area, and home remedies like rest, icing, or over-the-counter pain relief aren’t helping, it’s time to see a podiatrist in Los Angeles. Persistent pain could be a sign of a more serious underlying problem, such as plantar fasciitis or tendonitis, that requires professional intervention.
2. Difficulty Walking or Standing
If flat feet or fallen arches are affecting your ability to walk or stand comfortably, a podiatrist can help. You may notice that you tire easily when on your feet, or your feet feel sore after walking short distances. A podiatrist can assess your gait and determine if custom orthotics or other treatments can improve your comfort.
3. Foot Swelling
If you experience regular swelling in your feet or ankles, especially after walking or standing, this could be a sign that the tendons and muscles in your feet are being overworked due to flat feet. A podiatrist can evaluate your condition and recommend treatments to reduce the strain on your feet.
4. Pain in Other Areas of the Body
Flat feet can contribute to pain in your knees, hips, and lower back due to the changes in your body’s alignment and gait. If you are experiencing pain in these areas and suspect it might be related to your feet, it’s a good idea to consult a podiatrist in Los Angeles. They can determine if your flat feet are contributing to the issue and provide solutions to alleviate the pain.
5. Changes in Your Arch Over Time
If you notice that your arches are collapsing or that your feet are changing shape, especially in adulthood, it’s important to see a podiatrist. These changes could be a sign of fallen arches, which may require treatment to prevent further complications.
6. Worsening Symptoms
If your symptoms worsen over time, despite using home remedies like wearing supportive shoes or using over-the-counter orthotics, you should see a podiatrist in Los Angeles. Delaying treatment could lead to more serious complications, including chronic pain or long-term damage to the feet.
Causes of Flat Feet and Fallen Arches
There are several reasons why someone might develop flat feet or fallen arches. Understanding these causes can help you identify risk factors and take steps to prevent or manage the condition.
1. Genetics
Some people are born with flat feet. If flat feet run in your family, you may be more likely to develop them as well. In these cases, the condition often persists into adulthood and may require ongoing management.
2. Injury
Injuries to the foot or ankle, such as fractures or sprains, can damage the tendons and ligaments that support the arch. This can cause the arch to collapse over time, resulting in fallen arches.
3. Age
As we age, the tendons and ligaments in our feet can weaken, leading to the gradual collapse of the arches. This is why flat feet or fallen arches are more common in older adults.
4. Obesity
Carrying excess weight places additional stress on the feet, which can contribute to the collapse of the arches. Obesity is a risk factor for developing flat feet, especially in adulthood.
5. Pregnancy
During pregnancy, the body produces hormones that relax the ligaments in preparation for childbirth. This can sometimes result in a flattening of the arches, particularly in women who already have a tendency toward flat feet.
6. Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes, can increase the risk of developing flat feet. These conditions can affect the joints, tendons, and ligaments in the feet, leading to structural changes over time.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Flat Feet and Fallen Arches
If you experience symptoms of flat feet or fallen arches, a podiatrist in Los Angeles will perform a physical examination to assess the structure of your feet. They may also use imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans, to get a better look at your bones and soft tissues.
Treatment Options
The treatment for flat feet or fallen arches depends on the severity of the condition and the symptoms you are experiencing. Some common treatment options include:
- Custom Orthotics Custom orthotics are specially designed shoe inserts that provide additional support for the arches and help correct abnormal foot mechanics. Orthotics can relieve pain, improve walking patterns, and prevent further complications.
- Supportive Footwear Wearing shoes with good arch support and cushioning is essential for managing flat feet. A podiatrist in Los Angeles can recommend footwear that provides the right level of support for your needs.
- Physical Therapy Physical therapy exercises can help strengthen the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that support the arches. Stretching and strengthening exercises can also improve flexibility and reduce discomfort.
- Medications In cases of pain or inflammation, over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can provide relief. In more severe cases, a podiatrist may recommend prescription medications to manage symptoms.
- Surgery In rare cases, surgery may be required to correct flat feet or fallen arches. Surgical options include repairing damaged tendons, fusing joints, or reconstructing the arch. Surgery is typically reserved for severe cases where other treatments have failed.
Also Read: Aching Feet? Podiatrists Can Help with These Common Foot Problems
Conclusion
Flat feet and fallen arches are common conditions that can affect your quality of life if left untreated. While not everyone with flat feet will experience pain or discomfort, it’s important to seek the advice of a podiatrist in Los Angeles if you notice any symptoms or if your condition worsens over time. Early intervention and proper treatment can help manage the symptoms of flat feet, prevent further complications, and improve your overall foot health.
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