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Surgery to correct flat feet is not new, however, advances in medical technology are becoming available that gives patients the option of an outpatient procedure to correct flat feet. Vanessa Wanshop, of Mount Penn, Pennsylvania, benefitted from this outpatient procedure, where a titanium implant is inserted into the tarsal tunnel of the ankle to help form an arch.
Even without surgery, taking care of flat feet can become easier with the help of a podiatrist. Dr. Hyman of The Podiatry Center treats many patients with flat feet on a daily basis and can recommend the best course of action to help take care of your feet.
What are Flat Feet?
Flat feet are a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. Standing about 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arch never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – if you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms:
- Pain around the heel or arch area
- Trouble standing on the tips of your toes
- Swelling around the inside of the ankle
- Flat look to one or both feet
- Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment:
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. There are several ways to help treat this pain and help flat feet.
Barefoot- studies show that those who grew up going barefoot, wearing less closed-toe shoes have more of an arch. This so happens because the strength and fullness of the arch increased.
Exercise- the will strengthen and stretch the area, helping with the Achilles tendon.
Shoe Inserts – orthopedists will often recommended patients with ankle supports. This reduces pain especially those who suffer from flat feet.
Surgery – tendon surgery is an option that can help with any posterior tears. As with any surgery, it is important to speak with your doctor for professional advice.
If you have any questions or experience pain from flat feet, please feel free to contact our office in Milburn NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.
Read the full article on Flat Feet.
