How do I know if I have flat feet?

Most feet have a curved arch on the inside, lifting the sole off the ground. Several tendons band together to form this arch in most people. If you’re missing this arch, it’s called a flat foot. If you can’t tell if you have flat feet by looking at the soles of your feet, there’s an easy way to test yourself. First, get the bottoms of your feet wet. Then, stand on a dry surface that shows your footprints.

When you step away, look at the footprints. If you see a complete foot with no space in between the heel and forefoot, you probably have flat feet.

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What are the symptoms of flat feet?

It’s common to have flat feet without experiencing any symptoms at all, but sometimes flat feet may cause the following issues:

• Difficulty moving your feet and standing on your toes

• Aches and pains in your arches and heels

• Swelling on the bottoms of your feet

• Back and leg pain

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What causes flat feet?

Your foot becomes flat when the tendons that are supposed to form an arch don’t pull hard enough to create a curve. Many people are born with flat feet, but other common health conditions may cause flat feet, including:

• Damaging or stretching the tendons in your feet

• Broken or dislocated bones

• Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes

• Nerve problems

• Weight gain from pregnancy or obesity

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How does a podiatrist treat flat feet?

First, a podiatrist checks your feet in a physical exam and asks questions about your medical history. They may examine your shoes for unusual signs of wear and observe your feet while you stand and move. If you do have flat feet, the doctors prescribe a treatment plan based on the severity. If your symptoms are minor, they may suggest treatments such as:

• Stretching exercises or physical therapy

• Rest, ice, and pain relief medicines

• Orthotic devices

If your condition is severe, they may recommend surgery or another medical procedure to correct your flat feet. If foot pain is limiting your ability to move, call West Morris Foot and Ankle or book an appointment online today.

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Are You Looking for Flat feet treatment  in Roxbury, NJ?

If you are looking for flat feet treatment, you should reach out to a well trained podiatrist. Ready to schedule an appointment? Contact us online or at our office at (973) 370-3759.