Flat Feet

The Foot and Ankle Sports Institute

Foot and Ankle Surgeons & Sports Medicine Specialists located in Burbank, CA & Santa Monica, Los Angeles, CA

If your feet don’t have a visible arch, you have a condition known as flat feet. Flatfeet doesn’t always present health problems, but it does increase your risk of gait and posture problems, as well as musculoskeletal pain. At The Foot and Ankle Sports Institute in Burbank, West LA, and Agoura Hills, CA, the specialists regularly work with patients to diagnose and treat flat feet. To make your appointment, call the office or request an appointment online.

Flat Feet Q & A

What is flat feet?

Flat feet are a common foot problem characterized by flat or nonexistent arches. If the sole of your foot touches the ground when you stand up, you probably have flat feet.

When you’re young and active, flat feet usually don’t present any symptoms. However, as you get older, flat feet cause wear-and-tear damage and increase your risk of joint problems in your ankles and knees.

What are the symptoms of flat feet?

Most people with flat feet don’t experience any symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, foot pain, particularly in the arch or heel area, is common.

Some people with flat feet also experience pain during physical activity and swelling that affects the inner ankle. If you experience these or other similar symptoms, make an appointment at The Foot and Ankle Sports Institute.

Who is at risk of flat feet?

Anyone can develop flat feet, but there are certain factors that may increase your risk, including:

Being obese
Suffering a foot or ankle injury
Having rheumatoid arthritis
Having diabetes

You’re also more likely to develop flat feet as you get older. Over the years, the ligaments, tendons, and muscles in your feet weaken and provide less adequate support.

What’s the process for diagnosing flat feet?

To diagnose flat feet, your provider reviews your medical history, asks you a series of questions about your symptoms, and physically examines your feet and ankles. They might also ask you to stand up, sit down, and walk around the exam room to observe your posture and gait. If necessary, they might also order diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or ultrasound.

What’s the best way to treat flat feet?

The team at The Foot and Ankle Sports Institute offers two different types of treatment for flat feet, including:

Modified shoe gear

If you lack adequate arch support, the Foot and Ankle Sports Institute might recommend modified shoe gear. Depending on your symptoms, this might include medial wedges or splints to better support your feet and ankles.

Custom orthotics

If you have a mild case of flat feet, The Foot and Ankle Sports Institute might recommend custom orthotics. They offer an array of prefabricated orthotics.

Don’t wait to seek treatment for flat feet—make an appointment at The Foot and Ankle Sports Institute by calling the office or using the online booking tool today.

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