Do you have flat feet? It's a common question, and knowing the answer is important for your foot health. Flat feet can cause problems ranging from simple aches to more serious issues affecting your whole body.
This blog post will show you how to tell if you have flat feet. We'll cover easy checks you can do at home and signs to watch for. Read on to learn how to keep your feet healthy and pain-free.
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Flat Feet vs. Arched Feet
The arch on the inside of your foot acts like a natural shock absorber. It helps distribute your body weight evenly and provides support when you walk, run, or stand. When you have arched feet, you can see a distinct curve along the inner edge of your foot when you stand.
On the other hand, with flat feet, that arch is either very low or completely absent, and the entire sole of your foot touches the ground. This lack of arch can impact the way your feet function and can lead to various problems if left untreated.
Let's figure out which type of foot you have.
What Do Flat Feet Look Like?
One classic trick is the "wet foot test." Wet the bottom of your foot and step onto a piece of cardboard or paper that will show your footprint. If you see a full outline of your foot, with little to no curve along the inner edge, you might have flat feet.
Next, take a look at your feet in a mirror. Do you see a clear arch on the inside of your foot when you're standing? If not, that's another sign.
Finally, check your shoes. Do they wear out unevenly, with the inside edges showing more wear? This could be a sign that your feet are rolling inward due to flat feet.
These simple checks can give you a good idea if you need to see a podiatrist for a closer look.
What Are the Symptoms of Flat Feet?
While visual checks are helpful, pay attention to how your feet feel. Foot pain is a common sign of flat feet. You might feel aching or burning in your arches, heels, or ankles. Some describe it as stiffness, making it hard to walk or stand for long.
The pain often worsens with activity or prolonged standing. This happens because flat feet strain your muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Flat feet can also cause problems beyond your feet. You might experience leg fatigue, shin splints, knee pain, or even lower back pain. This happens because flat feet affect your posture and alignment, creating a chain reaction of discomfort.
The Risks of Untreated Flat Feet
Untreated flat feet can increase your risk of:
Chronic Pain
The ongoing strain on your feet, ankles, and legs can lead to persistent pain that interferes with your daily activities and overall quality of life.
Surgery
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the alignment of your feet and alleviate pain.
Permanent Deformity
Over time, the structure of your feet can change, leading to permanent deformities that affect your gait and mobility.
Pain in Other Areas
Flat feet can throw off your body's alignment, causing pain to radiate to your knees, hips, and even your lower back.
Common Foot Conditions Linked to Flat Feet
Flat feet can also contribute to or worsen a variety of other foot problems:
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Bunions.
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Hammertoes
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Arthritis
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Plantar Fasciitis/Heel Spurs
While some arches naturally flatten over time, many people are born with flat feet. Since flat feet can be hereditary, so can the associated foot conditions.
Effective Treatment for Flat Feet
If you have flat feet, custom orthotics are the most effective way to get relief. These special shoe inserts are made just for your feet, so they provide the perfect support and alignment.
Custom orthotics help your feet move the right way, taking pressure off your arches and preventing pain. They can also stop other foot problems from happening, like bunions and heel spurs.
Store-bought insoles aren't as good because they're not made for your specific feet. For the best results, talk to your podiatrist about custom orthotics.
When to See a Podiatrist
If you suspect you have flat feet, don't hesitate to seek professional advice. Persistent or worsening foot pain is a clear sign that you should consult a podiatrist. Early intervention can prevent complications and find effective treatment options.
Don't let flat feet limit your activities or affect your quality of life. If you notice any impact on your daily routine or experience any of the symptoms we've discussed, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.
Parents pay close attention to their children's feet too. If you notice signs of flat feet or your child complains of foot pain, get their feet evaluated. Addressing flat feet early in childhood can help ensure proper foot development and prevent future problems.
Schedule an Appointment With a Trusted Podiatrist
Worried about how to tell if you have flat feet? At Haro Podiatry Center in Clifton, NJ, we specialize in diagnosing and treating foot problems, including flat feet. Our team uses advanced tools to assess your feet and create a personalized treatment plan. We aim to help you feel better and move more easily.
If you have any concerns about your feet or are experiencing pain, don't wait. Schedule a consultation with us.
