Overview

Flat Feet

Flatfoot might not be a problem for some people, but for others, this condition can bring complications and symptoms, such as lower back pain or impaired functioning and mobility. At Gardner Orthopedics in Fort Myers, Florida, the collaborative and highly trained group of orthopedic surgeons offer valuable solutions for flatfoot, including innovative custom orthotics. Call the office or book online today to find relief for your flatfoot.

Flat Feet Q & A

Normal arches of the foot have a pronounced upward curve in the middle of the foot and can stabilize and support the ligaments and tendons in your foot and lower leg.

If you have fallen arches or a flat foot, your arch hasn’t properly formed or has collapsed over time.

Flatfoot can be present from birth, may follow a fracture, a ligament tear, or another type of injury, or may develop gradually due to aging, or overuse.

An arch might collapse as a complication of certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes.

For proper diagnosis of flatfoot, it’s best to visit Gardner Orthopedics. There’s also a simple test you can do at home to help you figure out if you have flatfoot.

Find a concrete surface and some water and get your feet wet. Stand on the surface like you usually would and step away to examine the imprints. With normal arches, the imprint won’t show the inside curve of your foot. With flatfoot, almost the entire imprint of the base of your foot will be visible.

Flatfoot can cause complications, such as pain, redness, and swelling that hinders walking.

As the arch of your foot collapses, your heel bone may shift out of place, and lead to ulcers or bony bumps. In some instances, flatfoot can force other joints out of alignment.

After determining the cause and severity of your flatfoot, your provider creates a personalized treatment plan centered around supporting your arches, enhancing mobility, relieving pain, and preventing complications.

To treat your flatfoot, your provider might suggest:

  • Walking boot to help your tendon to heal
  • Immobilization and rest
  • Medications to decrease inflammation and pain
  • Losing weight if excess weight is exacerbating your condition
  • Physical therapy and specialized stretching to relieve muscle tension
  • Custom shoes, inserts, a brace, or other orthotics to give your arch support

Your orthopedic surgeon might recommend surgery to repair damaged tendons and ligaments and correct bone abnormalities.  Surgery is usually performed to lengthen or replace tendons, tighten or stretch ligaments, and remove or fuse bones when necessary to help your arch.

Pain from flatfoot can radiate through different areas of your body and cause consistent problems. Don’t just deal with flatfoot, click or call to visit Gardner Orthopedics.

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