Flat feet are an incredibly common trait, affecting between 20 to 30% of the global population. Yes, we at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists said “affecting.” That’s the point of this article today: are flat feet an issue that requires a podiatrist’s intervention? Let’s find out.
Your Arch and Flat Feet
When you have a neutral arch, the force of every step you take is distributed evenly across the entire foot. But when the arch is flat, your foot tends to roll inward excessively as it hits the pavement. This is known as overpronation.
Because your foot cannot absorb the impact properly, that energy must go somewhere else. Usually, it travels straight up into your ankles, shins, and knees, which leads to that heavy, tired feeling after a long day of walking.
How Flat Feet Create a Chain Reaction of Pain
When your feet roll inward due to a lack of arch support, it forces your lower leg bones to rotate inward as well, which puts stress on your knee joints and causes your pelvis to tilt forward.
This is exactly why many people with flat feet complain about persistent lower back pain or hip soreness. You might spend a lot of time and money on back massages or stretching, but the real culprit is actually hiding inside your shoes.
Flexible Versus Rigid Flat Feet
It is important to determine which type of flat feet you have to understand the risk of future injury. And you can find out in the bathroom (though this is not a true diagnosis).
Stand on your tiptoes in front of a mirror. If a visible arch appears when you lift your heels, you have flexible flat feet. This is generally easier to manage with the right exercises and supportive sneakers; however, if your foot stays completely flat against the floor even when you are up on your toes, you likely have rigid flat feet.
This version is much more likely to cause significant pain and permanent structural issues over time, and it almost always requires a podiatric evaluation to prevent long-term damage to your tendons.
How to Support Your Flat Feet
The good news is that having flat feet does not mean you are destined for a life of discomfort:
- High-quality custom orthotics can provide the structural support that your body is missing (consult with us!).
- Strengthening the muscles in your feet through targeted exercises can also help provide a bit of natural lift.
- By prioritizing comfortable shoes, you might be able to prevent the long-term wear and tear that leads to conditions like arthritis, bunions, or chronic tendonitis.
For any podiatric concerns you’re dealing with, see Dr. Hubert Lee and the team at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists for guidance and advice. You can schedule an appointment online or call today at 425-455-0936.