If you have flat feet, your arches appear flattened. When this happens, your entire sole touches the floor whenever you stand. Flat feet are usually painless. This condition occurs when your foot’s arches didn’t develop as they should when you were a child. Sometimes flat feet can develop in adulthood. This usually happens when someone is injured, but can also occur with aging.

Since flat feet can change the alignment in your legs, it can cause problems in your knees and ankles. However, if you are not experiencing pain from this condition, you may not require any medical intervention.

Symptoms of Flat Feet

Most people with flat feet do not experience outward symptoms or signs. However, others experience some pain in their feet, especially in their arches and heels. If you are experiencing pain, note that the discomfort could get worse with activity. You could also experience swelling on the insides of your ankles. Since this could be indicative of more serious issues in the future, you or your child should see a doctor if you have pain related to flat feet.

What Causes Flat Feet?

Flat feet are normal in babies and toddlers due to the fact that the arches in their feet haven’t developed. While most people develop foot arches during childhood, some don’t. This is a normal variation, thus many people with flat feet never develop any physical symptoms. Arches have also been known to fall over a period of time. As you age, the tendon on the inside of your ankle that supports your foot arch could weaken.

Are Some People At a Higher Risk For Flat Feet?

Some factors that could put you at risk for flat feet include the following symptoms:

• Aging
• Diabetes
• Foot injuries
• Obesity
• Rheumatoid arthritis

How to Prepare For Your Appointment With the Podiatrist

Wear your normal shoes to your first appointment. This is so that your podiatrist can look at your sole’s wear pattern. The doctor will also ask you questions regarding the history of your foot pain, your family’s foot health history, and issues with motion and activity. If needed, your podiatrist may order imaging tests such as MRIs, X-rays, ultrasounds and CT scans to be performed. Arch supports, physical therapy, and stretching exercises are just some of the methods that your doctor may suggest will reduce your foot pain. For many people with flatfeet, wearing shoes with supportive structures also help. Your treatment provider can help you find the right type for your case.