Individuals suffering from flat feet are particularly vulnerable to foot pain and mobility problems. That said, you must seek professional assistance in the face of this condition to avoid severe complications in the future. Colorado Springs flat feet care is on a whole new level at Foot and Ankle Institute of Colorado. Board-certified podiatrists and foot surgeons Matthew Hinderland, DPM, and Jordan Cameron, DPM work closely with patients to diagnose and treat flat feet with proven safe and effective methods.
What Are Flat feet?
Flat feet is a widespread podiatric condition often characterized by lacking visible arches. When you have flat feet, the entire sole of your feet makes full contact with the floor when you stand or move around.
Flat feet usually develop during childhood. Nonetheless, this condition can also occur from an injury or normal wear-and-tear associated with the aging process. For specific individuals, flat feet usually are no cause for alarm. For others, it corrupts the alignment of the legs, leading to foot, ankle, and lower back pain.
Symptoms of Flat Feet
Flat feet usually do not cause any complications during the early stages. However, as the condition progresses, you may feel pain in your heels or arches or if the pain intensifies during exercise or other physical activities. Most people suffering from this condition also experience swelling along the inside of their ankles.
Am I Vulnerable to Developing Flat Feet?
Flat feet affect persons of all races, ages, and genders. However, various factors can increase your susceptibility, such as:
- Diabetes
- Being overweight
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Being middle-aged or older
If you have suffered a previous foot or ankle injury such as dislocation or sprain, you will most likely suffer flat feet.
Diagnosing Flat Feet
When diagnosing flat feet, your specialist at Foot and Ankle Institute of Colorado physically examines your ankles and feet, asking you questions about your symptoms while observing your feet from the front, back, and sides. Your provider further asks you to stand on your toes whereas examining the wear pattern on your shoes.
If these measures cannot provide enough information, your specialist might recommend a series of X-rays or an MRI to closely observe the bones, joints, and soft tissues on your feet.
How are Flat Feet Treated?
Flat feet treatment depends on the complexity of your symptoms and their effect on your overall life quality. If your case is mild or moderate, you may experience relief from stretching exercises, supportive shoes, physical therapy, or customized orthotics.
If your pain is relentless even with conservative care measures, surgical intervention may be your ideal alternative. There exists no surgery effective in solely correcting flat feet. However, your podiatrist may recommend surgery to address a related problem such as a torn or ruptured tendon.
Bottom Line
Do not allow flat feet to impact your mobility and overall life quality when you can find reliable treatment. To usher in a new era of healthy feet, request a consultation with the Foot and Ankle Institute of Colorado. Call the offices or click the online scheduling tool.