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Flat Feet

Flat Feet

Flat Feet services offered in Richardson, Wadley Tower, Dallas and Garland, TX

About 8% of American adults over the age of 21 have flat feet. Without proper management, flat feet may increase your risk of more serious foot-related health problems. The podiatry team at Metroplex Foot and Ankle, LLP, with offices in Richardson, Garland, and Dallas, Texas, proudly offers safe, effective treatment for flat feet. To request your flat feet consultation today, call the office or click the online booking tool. 

Flat Feet Q&A

What are flat feet?

Flat feet is a common condition that simply means your feet don’t have arches. If you have flat feet, the soles of your feet make direct contact with the ground every time you stand up or go for a walk. 

You might have flat feet if your arches failed to develop during childhood. Other common causes of flat feet include wear-and-tear stresses that occur with aging and sports-related injuries.

 No matter the underlying cause of flat feet, if they’re negatively affecting your quality of life, make an appointment with Metroplex Foot and Ankle, LLC, today.

What are the symptoms of flat feet?

In their early stages, flat feet rarely present any obvious symptoms. However, as your flat feet get worse, you might experience foot pain in your heels or arches. 

You may also notice that your pain gets worse with physical activity. Some people with flat feet also experience swelling or inflammation on the inside of their ankles. 

Who is at risk of getting flat feet?

Flat feet affect people of all ages, races, and genders, but there are certain factors that 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 previous foot or ankle injuries such as a sprain or fracture.

What’s the process for diagnosing flat feet?

To diagnose flat feet, the team physically examines your feet and ankles. They also view the mechanics of your feet and asks you to walk around the exam room and stand on your toes. Your provider also asks you about your symptoms and looks at the wear pattern on the bottom of your shoes.

If necessary, the team might also order a series of X-rays or an MRI to get a closer look at the bones, joints, and soft tissues that make up your feet. 

What does treatment for flat feet depend on?

Treatment for flat feet depends on the underlying cause and severity of your symptoms. However, your Metroplex Foot and Ankle, LLP, provider usually recommends conservative, noninvasive treatments such as arch supports, custom-made orthotics, or supportive shoes. The team might also recommend stretching exercises or physical therapy.

If your flat feet pain persists or gets worse, surgical intervention may be necessary. There’s not a specific surgery used to correct flat feet, but the practice might recommend surgery to address a related problem such as a ruptured or torn tendon. Custom-made orthotics might also provide relief.

Don’t let flat feet prevent you from living an active, mobile lifestyle. Request an appointment with Metroplex Foot and Ankle, LLP, today by calling the office or clicking the online booking tool.