Flat Feet Treatment
Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, is a condition where the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole of the foot to come into contact with the ground. This can lead to foot pain, fatigue, and difficulty with activities that involve standing or walking for extended periods. At Axis Foot & Ankle, your top podiatrist in Middletown, we offer a comprehensive approach to treating flat feet to alleviate symptoms, improve foot function, and enhance your quality of life.
Here’s a detailed guide to the treatments we provide:
1. Diagnosis and Evaluation:
- Purpose: Determine the cause and severity of flat feet.
- Description: Your podiatrist will conduct a thorough physical examination of your feet, assessing the structure of your arches, range of motion, and alignment. X-rays or other imaging tests may be ordered to evaluate the bones and joints of the feet.
2. Conservative Treatments:
a. Orthotic Devices:
- Purpose: Provide support and improve foot mechanics.
- Description: Custom orthotic inserts or arch supports are designed to provide cushioning and support to the arch of the foot. They help redistribute pressure evenly across the foot, correct abnormal foot alignment, and relieve pain associated with flat feet.
b. Footwear Modification:
- Purpose: Reduce discomfort and prevent progression.
- Description: Wear supportive shoes with firm heel counters and adequate arch support. Shoes with a wide toe box and good shock absorption can help stabilize the foot and reduce strain on flat arches.
c. Physical Therapy:
- Purpose: Strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.
- Description: A physical therapist can develop a personalized exercise program focusing on stretching tight muscles and strengthening weak muscles in the feet, ankles, and lower legs. These exercises help improve foot mechanics and reduce pain associated with flat feet.
d. Medications:
- Purpose: Manage pain and inflammation.
- Description: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may be recommended to reduce pain and inflammation associated with flat feet.
3. Supportive Measures:
a. Taping or Bracing:
- Purpose: Provide temporary support and alignment.
- Description: Your podiatrist may recommend taping techniques or the use of ankle braces to provide additional support to the arch and improve foot alignment during activities that aggravate flat feet symptoms.
b. Padding and Cushioning:
- Purpose: Reduce pressure points and friction.
- Description: Pads or cushions placed under the arch of the foot can help alleviate discomfort and prevent the formation of calluses or corns on flat feet.
4. Surgical Intervention:
- Purpose: Correct severe deformities or persistent symptoms.
- Description: In rare cases where conservative treatments fail to relieve symptoms, surgical correction (such as tendon reconstruction or joint fusion) may be considered to restore the arch and improve foot function. Your podiatrist will discuss the benefits, risks, and expected outcomes of surgery based on your individual condition.
5. Patient Education and Prevention:
- Purpose: Empower patients to manage flat feet and prevent complications.
- Description: Educate on proper foot care practices, including maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms, and wearing supportive footwear. Regularly monitoring foot health and addressing any changes or discomfort promptly can help prevent complications associated with flat feet.
6. Follow-Up Care:
- Purpose: Monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed.
- Description: Schedule follow-up visits as recommended by your podiatrist to evaluate the effectiveness of treatments, adjust orthotic devices or exercise programs, and address any new or recurring symptoms of flat feet.
Why Choose Axis Foot & Ankle?
- Expertise in Flat Feet Treatment: Our leading podiatrists specialize in advanced diagnosis and treatment for flat feet, employing personalized care plans.
- Compassionate Patient Care: We prioritize your comfort and well-being throughout your entire treatment journey.
- Comprehensive Flat Feet Treatment: From conservative therapies to surgical solutions and preventive education, our comprehensive care effectively addresses flat feet.