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 South Texas Podiatrist in San Antonio, Texas, Eddie Davis, DPM, regularly works with patients to diagnose and treat flatfeet. To make your appointment, call the office or click the online booking tool today.
Flatfeet is 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 flatfeet.
When you’re young and active, flatfeet usually doesn’t present any symptoms. However, as you get older, flatfeet causes wear-and-tear damage and increases your risk of joint problems in your ankles and knees.
Most people with flatfeet don’t experience any symptoms at all. However, as the condition progresses, it’s common to experience foot pain, particularly in the arch or heel area. Some people with flatfeet also experience pain during physical activity and swelling that affects the inner ankle. If you experience these or other similar symptoms, make an appointment with Dr. Davis at South Texas Podiatrist right away.
Anyone can develop flatfeet, but there are certain factors that may increase your risk, including:
You’re also more likely to develop flatfeet as you get older. Over the years, the ligaments, tendons, and muscles in your feet weaken and provide less adequate support.
To diagnose flatfeet, Dr. Davis reviews your medical history, asks you a series of questions about your symptoms, and physically examines your feet and ankles. He might also ask you to stand up, sit down, and walk around the exam room to observe your posture and gait. If necessary, Dr. Davis might also order diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or ultrasound.
At South Texas Podiatrist, Dr. Davis offers two different types of treatment for flatfeet, including:
If you don’t have adequate arch support, Dr. Davis might recommend modified shoe gear. Depending on your symptoms, this might include medial wedges or splints to better support your feet and ankles.
If you have a mild case of flatfeet, Dr. Davis might recommend custom orthotics. Dr. Davis offers an array of prefabricated orthotics, including those that use the University of California Berkeley design.
Don’t wait to seek treatment for flatfeet –– make an appointment at South Texas Podiatrist by calling the office or by clicking the online booking tool today.
