Flat feet happen when the arches in your feet flatten out, making your whole foot touch the floor. This is pretty common and doesn't always hurt, but it can sometimes cause problems. If you're wondering how to know if you have flat feet, this blog will show you some quick and easy tests you can do at home. We'll also talk about what causes flat feet and what you can do about them.
If your feet are bothering you, keep reading!
What Are Fallen Arches?
Flat feet happen when the arches on the inside of your feet are flat. Usually, your feet have a curve on the inside. This curve is called an arch. When someone has flat feet, their feet are flat on the ground when they stand.
Many babies and toddlers have flat feet. This is normal because their arches haven't developed yet. As kids grow up, their arches usually start to form. But some people never develop arches. This is often fine and doesn't cause any problems.
There are two types of flat feet. One is called "flexible flatfoot." This means the arch is there sometimes, like when you sit down, but goes away when you stand up. Many kids have this, and they usually outgrow it. The other type is called "acquired flatfoot." This happens when the arches flatten later in life.
Flat feet often don't cause any problems. But sometimes they can cause pain or discomfort. Keep reading to learn how to check your feet!
Easy Tests to Check for Flat Feet at Home
Think you might have flat feet? Here are a few easy tests you can do at home to check:
The Footprint Test
First, you'll need to get your feet wet. You can do this by stepping in a shallow pan of water or by wetting your feet with a wet towel. Then, step on a flat surface where you can see your footprint. A piece of cardboard or a dark-colored floor works well.
Now, look at your footprint. If you have an arch, you'll see a curve on the inside of your footprint. If you have flat feet, your whole footprint will touch the ground.
The Toe Test
For this test, stand with your back to a mirror. Position your feet so they are pointing forward. Now, look at your feet in the mirror. Can you see your toes? If you have an arch, you should only be able to see your pinky toe and maybe a little bit of your fourth toe. If you have flat feet, you'll be able to see more of your toes.
Ask a Friend
Sometimes it's easier to have someone else check your feet for you. Stand up straight with your feet shoulder-width apart. Have a friend look at the inside of your feet. If you have an arch, they should see a curve. If you have flat feet, your feet will be flat on the ground.
You can also have them look at your feet while you stand on your tiptoes. If an arch appears when you do this, your feet are probably okay.
These tests are a great way to get a quick idea of whether you might have flat feet. If you're concerned or if your feet are bothering you, it's always a good idea to see a podiatrist. They can do a more thorough exam and give you personalized advice.
Why Do People Have Flat Feet?
There are a few reasons why someone might have flat feet. Sometimes, flat feet run in families. If your parents or grandparents have flat feet, you might have them too. But even if flat feet are common in your family, you might not get them.
Sometimes, people develop flat feet later in life. This can happen because of an injury, like if you hurt your ankle. It can also happen slowly over time. As we get older, the tendons in our feet can weaken, causing our arches to fall.
A few things can make you more likely to have flat feet. Being overweight can put extra stress on your feet. Certain health problems, like diabetes or arthritis, can also make flat feet more likely.
Why Should I Care About Flat Feet?
Even though flat feet often don't cause problems, they can be painful sometimes.
Flat feet can change the way you walk. This can put extra stress on your feet and ankles. You might feel pain in your heels, arches, or even your knees. Some people with flat feet get plantar fasciitis. This is when the bottom of your heel hurts, especially when you walk. Flat feet can also cause problems with your Achilles tendon, which is the tendon at the back of your ankle.
If you have flat feet and they start to hurt, it's important to see a foot doctor. They can help you figure out what's causing the pain and what you can do about it.
Sometimes, simple things like wearing supportive shoes or using special inserts in your shoes can help. In other cases, you might need other treatments to help your feet feel better.
When Should I See a Podiatrist About My Flat Feet?
You should see a podiatrist if you have foot pain, especially in your heel or arch. If the pain gets worse when you walk or exercise, that's also a sign you should see a doctor. Some people with flat feet also have swelling on the inside of their ankles. If you notice this, make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Seeing a podiatrist is important because they can figure out what's going on with your feet. They can tell you how flat your feet are and what problems you might have. They can also help you find the right treatment. This might include special exercises, supportive shoes, or inserts for your shoes called orthotics.
If you live in the Clifton, NJ area and you're looking for a podiatrist, Haro Podiatry Center can help. Dr. Haro is a foot specialist with many years of experience. He can help you understand your flat feet and find the right treatment for you.
Flat Feet Worries? Find Relief at Haro Podiatry Center
Taking care of your feet is important for staying active and healthy. Now you know how to check your feet at home and what to do if you think you have flat feet. Remember, flat feet are common and often don't cause problems. But if your feet hurt or you're worried about them, see a foot doctor immediately.
We hope this blog post has helped you learn how to know if you have flat feet. If you need to see a podiatrist. Dr. Haro and his team can answer your questions and provide expert care for your feet.
