If your feet are lacking the typical arch, you most likely have a condition known as flat feet. There are different types of flat feet that can affect a person. Flexible flat foot, one of the most common types of flat feet, is characterized by lacking an arch only when pressure is applied. When pressure isn’t applied, a flexible flat foot will have an arch, which disappears while standing. Semi-flexible flat feet will have slight to no arch with or without pressure, and then flatten out once standing. A rigid flat foot will have no sign of an arch whether standing or not. To properly diagnose which type of flat feet you have, please consult with a podiatrist.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is 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. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches 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 tip toe
• 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. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn and Riverdale, New Jersey. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.