Flat Feet

More than one-fourth of the population may have flat feet. If you have low or non-visible foot arches and pain or mobility problems as a result, see board-certified podiatrist Gaston Liu, DPM, at Gaston Mike Liu LLC in Commack, New York. He diagnoses flat feet and offers solutions that ease discomfort and optimize foot function. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.  

What are flat feet?

Flat feet describe having no visible arches in the bottom of your feet when you stand up. While all babies have flat feet, arches often form during early childhood. But sometimes they don’t form, or arches collapse later in life. While not necessarily a cause for concern, flat feet could affect the way you move (gait) or become painful. 

Flat feet are common and might not cause symptoms. But see Dr. Liu if you develop heel pain, arch pain, shin splints, knee pain, ankle soreness, or foot fatigue. Flat feet treatment offers symptom relief and functional improvements.

What are the symptoms of flat feet?

Symptoms you may notice because of flat feet include:

• Ankle, foot, or heel pain
• Overpronation (feet that roll inward) when you walk 
• Discomfort after walking
• Shin splints
• Gait abnormalities
• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Aching
• Heel pain that’s worse in the morning
• Foot fatigue, especially after walking or standing
• Frequent ankle rolling
• Shoes that wear out unevenly, often collapsing inward

Pain may also develop in your lower back, hips, or knees. Your risk of injuries, such as repetitive strain injuries, foot and ankle arthritis, and ankle sprains or instability, may increase because of flat feet. 

What are the risk factors for flat feet?

Examples of flat feet risk factors include:

• Genetic conditions
• Clubfoot
• Obesity
• Chronic tendinitis
• Charcot foot (damage and inflammation)
• Arthritis
• Diabetes-related nerve damage
• Tendon dysfunction 
• Foot fractures 
• Foot ligament injuries
• Aging
• Diabetes 

It’s helpful to undergo a foot evaluation with Dr. Liu if you have pain lasting several weeks, you’re limping, you must avoid activity because of foot pain, or you experience ongoing swelling. See him if you have repeated heel pain, Achilles tendon discomfort, or ankle pain. 

How are flat feet diagnosed?

Dr. Liu can diagnose flat feet by reviewing your symptoms, lifestyle, previous injuries, and medical history. He also examines your feet and might order foot X-rays, an ultrasound, an MRI, a CT scan, or another imaging procedure to determine the most appropriate treatment. 

How are flat feet treated?

Treating flat feet may consist of:

• Supportive shoes with good arch support
• Custom orthotics (shoe inserts)
• Stretching and strengthening exercises
• Physical therapy 
• Bracing
• Laser therapy
• Activity changes during painful flare-ups
• Weight loss
• Medications
• Surgery in severe cases

Dr. Liu ensures your treatment is effective. He can also treat additional foot and/or ankle concerns to ensure you remain pain-free with good mobility and a superior quality of life.

Schedule a flat feet evaluation at Gaston Mike Liu LLC by phone or request one online today.