Flat Feet Treatment in Sacramento, CA
Flat foot is a condition in which the arches on the inside of your feet are flattened, allowing the entire sole to touch the floor when you stand. While many people with flat feet have no symptoms, others experience pain in the heel, arch, or ankle. Dennis Grandy, DPM helps patients find support and lasting relief. Call (916) 920-0371 to schedule your evaluation.
What Causes Flat Feet?
Flat feet are often caused by arches that did not fully develop during childhood, and in many people the condition is common and painless. Flat feet can also develop later in life after an injury, from the normal aging process, or due to conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, or obesity. One common cause of adult-acquired flat foot is weakening of the posterior tibial tendon, which supports the arch.
Symptoms of Flat Feet
While it is common not to experience any pain, some people feel discomfort in the heel or arch. Physical activity can irritate the area and inflame the foot along the inside of the ankle. This can happen when the tendon that supports the arch is stretched as it weakens. Other symptoms may include:
- Feet that tire easily after standing or walking
- Swelling along the inside of the ankle
- Difficulty standing on your toes
- Pain that extends to the knees, hips, or lower back
- Uneven shoe wear
How Flat Feet Are Treated
Treatment depends on your symptoms and the cause of your flat feet. custom orthotics are often the first line of treatment, providing arch support and improving alignment. Supportive shoes, stretching exercises for the calf and Achilles tendon, anti-inflammatory medication, and activity modification can also help. Flat feet can contribute to other problems such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, and ankle pain, so early care can prevent future issues. Athletes with flat feet may benefit from our sports medicine care.
Flat Feet FAQs
What are flat feet?
Flat feet occur when the arches on the inside of the feet are flattened, allowing the whole sole to touch the ground when standing.
Are flat feet a problem?
Many people with flat feet have no symptoms. Treatment is recommended when flat feet cause pain, fatigue, or other foot problems.
Can adults develop flat feet?
Yes. Injury, aging, arthritis, and weakening of the posterior tibial tendon can cause flat feet to develop in adulthood.
Do orthotics help flat feet?
Yes. Custom orthotics support the arch, improve alignment, and reduce strain on the feet and ankles.
Can flat feet cause knee or back pain?
Flat feet can change the way you walk, which may contribute to pain in the knees, hips, and lower back.
What shoes are best for flat feet?
Look for shoes with firm arch support, a stable heel counter, and good cushioning.
When should I see a podiatrist for flat feet?
See a podiatrist if you have arch, heel, or ankle pain, swelling, or if your feet tire easily.
Find Support for Flat Feet
Get the right support and relief for your feet. Call (916) 920-0371 to schedule an appointment with Dennis Grandy, DPM.