Flat Feet

Flat feet can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including foot and back pain, as well as limited mobility. If you’re experiencing these or other symptoms, don’t wait to seek help. Sameep Chandrani, DPM, AACFAS, and the team at Mercer Foot and Ankle Center, LLC, in Hamilton, New Jersey, regularly diagnose and treat flat feet in both children and adults. To request your consultation, call the office or request an appointment online today. 

What are flat feet?

Flat feet are a common foot deformity characterized by flattened or nonexistent arches. If you have flat feet, the soles of your feet make contact with the floor every time you stand up. 

Flat feet don’t always cause problems. Many people with flat feet live healthy, active lives and don’t need treatment. In some cases, though, flat feet cause ankle and knee pain. They can also negatively affect the alignment of your legs. 

What are the symptoms of flat feet?

The symptoms of flat feet vary from person to person. Common telltale signs of flat feet include:

• Foot pain
• Heel pain
• Swelling
• Bruising

If you have flat feet, you might also notice that your pain increases with physical activity, such as walking or running.

Who is at risk of having flat feet?

Flat feet affect people of all races and genders, but certain factors may increase your risk, including:

• Being overweight
• Having rheumatoid arthritis
• Having diabetes
• Being middle-aged or older

You’re also more likely to experience flat feet if you’ve suffered a foot or ankle-related injury in the past. 

How are flat feet diagnosed?

To diagnose flat feet, the team at Mercer Foot and Ankle Center, LLC, physically examines your feet and toes. Your doctor also asks you to stand up and walk around the exam room to observe your gait and posture. They might also look at the wear pattern on the bottom of your shoes. Usually, these measures are enough to pinpoint the source of your discomfort. 

How are flat feet treated?

Treatment for flat feet depends on the severity of your symptoms. The team at Mercer Foot and Ankle Center, LLC, has extensive experience in flat foot reconstruction and treatment in both children and adults.

If you have a minor case of flat feet, you might benefit from lifestyle changes such as stretching exercises, custom-made orthotics, or physical therapy. If your pain persists, surgical intervention might be necessary. There isn’t one single surgery used to correct flat feet, but your doctor might recommend surgery to repair a related problem, such as a torn or ruptured tendon.

Don’t let flat feet negatively affect your quality of life. To request an appointment at Mercer Foot and Ankle Center, LLC, call the office or request an appointment online today.