Understanding Flat Feet ![Flat feet and Fallen Arches treatment, Flatfoot Deformity Treatment in the Maricopa County, AZ: Chandler(Dobson Ranch, Kiwanis Park, Tempe, Ocotillo, Sun Lakes, Goodyear Village, Guadalupe, Ahwatukee, Mountain Park Ranch) and Gilbert (The Islands, Val Vista Lakes, Superstition Springs, Reed Park, Power Ranch, Mesa, Queen Creek, Eastmark, Kleinman Park Neighborhood, Lower Santan Village) areas]()
Also known as fallen arches, this condition occurs when the arches of your feet flatten during standing or walking.
While some people are born with this deformity, others develop flat feet over time due to factors such as aging, injury, or certain medical conditions.
The arch of your foot plays a crucial role in distributing body weight and absorbing shock during movement. When this natural support system fails, it can lead to pain and discomfort throughout your feet, ankles, and legs.
Many people with flat feet experience pain that worsens with activity. You might notice increased fatigue in your feet, swelling along the inside of your ankles, or pain that radiates up through your legs.
When to Consider Poditraic Care
Here's a simple fact: your feet shouldn't hurt during normal daily activities. So if you're experiencing persistent discomfort, it's time to seek professional treatment from one of our highly skilled podiatrists. Watch for these warning signs:
- Pain and stiffness. If your arches hurt, especially after long periods of standing or physical activity, or if discomfort often extends beyond your feet, affecting your ankles, knees, and lower back, we'll want to take a closer look.
- Uneven shoe wear. When you look at your shoes, are they particularly worn down on the inside edges? This pattern indicates your feet are rolling inward excessively when you walk, a condition known as overpronation.
- Interior ankle swelling. A lack of structure due to flat feet strains ankle ligaments and tendons, especially after being on your feet for extended periods.
Treatment Options for Flat Feet
At Marvel Foot & Ankle Centers, our Gilbert and Chandler podiatrists focus on addressing both the immediate symptoms and the underlying causes of your foot pain. We create personalized treatment plans based on the severity of your condition and your lifestyle needs. Our approach typically includes:
- Custom orthotics that provide precise support where your feet need it most. These medical devices help distribute pressure evenly across your feet and provide the arch support you're missing.
- Physical therapy exercises that strengthen the muscles supporting your arches. Our team will teach you specific stretches and exercises to improve foot flexibility and stability.
- Advanced treatment options such as regenerative medicine when conservative approaches aren't providing adequate relief. These innovative therapies help support your body's natural healing processes.