Flat Feet FAQs

What characterizes flat feet?

Flat feet is a complex disorder in which the arch of your foot is partially or completely lost, and your foot lies completely flat against the ground when you stand barefoot. Flat feet can cause your toes to turn outward, your heel to tilt outward, and your ankle to tilt inward.

There are two main types of flat feet: flexible flat feet and rigid flat feet. Flexible flat feet tend to flatten when you’re standing, though your arch returns when you’re not bearing weight. Rigid flat feet are always flat, no matter your position. Rigid flat feet are usually present from birth, while flexible flat feet can develop in childhood and may worsen over time.

What causes flat feet?

Flat feet develop due to loose ligaments in your foot that don’t support the bones of your arch properly. When you stand, the ligaments in your foot stretch and allow the joints into your feet to drop towards the ground. This creates the impression of flat feet.

Certain factors increase your risk of developing flat feet as you age, including:

• High blood pressure

• Diabetes

• Obesity

• Previous ankle surgery or trauma

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Steroid use

Early diagnosis and treatment of flat feet can prevent long-term problems and foot pain associated with flat feet.

Why are flat feet a problem?

Having flat feet can increase your risk of other foot problems and deformities, including bunions, hammertoes, heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendinitis.

In some cases, maintaining a healthy weight and practicing good foot care habits, like stretching your calves and the soles of your feet, can reduce your risk of developing flat feet.

What is the treatment for flat feet?

Treatment for flat feet depends on the cause of your condition. The team assesses your condition and the structure of your foot to determine the severity of your flat feet and identify an appropriate treatment approach.

Possible treatments for flat feet include:

• Activity modifications

• Weight loss

• Orthotics

• Casting or bracing

• Medications, like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and inflammation

• Physical therapy

• Shoe modifications

If you have a severe case of flat feet or if your symptoms are also causing other foot health issues, the team may recommend surgery to rebuild or repair your arches.

Find out which treatment options can help your flat feet by calling Utah Podiatry, a foot and ankle clinic, or scheduling a visit online now.