What are Fallen Arches

16 Feb What are Fallen Arches

Arch Enemies

Fallen arches or “flat feet” can make walking, standing and other normal activities difficult. At Shuman Podiatry & Sports Medicine, we’re the foot care experts who specialize in the treatment of fallen arches and other foot conditions. If your flat feet are causing you trouble, call us today to get the latest diagnostic and treatment options that will lift your arches and your spirits.

Fallen Arches

Children often have flat feet, but they usually grow out of it by around age 10. In adults, flat feet occur when the foot loses the bend or curve under the instep. In a normal foot, the tendons and ligaments that connect the foot and lower leg work to keep the arch curved and high. When these ligaments weaken, the arch flattens, often causing intense pain.

Symptoms of Fallen Arches

Dr. Shuman can determine if your problem is flat feet or another condition. Since many foot conditions create similar symptoms, proper diagnosis is important. You should consult a podiatrist if you experience symptoms of fallen arches such as:

• aching foot and leg muscles, especially after standing for some time;
• sharp pain in the ankle, foot and lower leg;.
• feet that tire easily;
• swelling in the arch area;
• feet that turn outward at the ankle.

Causes of Flat Feet

• A congenital condition.
• Foot injuries such as a broken leg or sprained ankle.
• Excessive wear and tear of the ligaments and tendons, through overuse or obesity.
• Weakened leg muscles because of aging or illness.
• Chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
• Wearing shoes without proper arch support.
• Work or other activities that require hours of standing.

Treatment of Fallen Arches

Shuman Podiatry features up-to-date diagnostic techniques that will help us determine the best treatment options for you. The usual course of therapy will involve:

• stretching exercises and physical therapy.
• pain medications and anti-inflammatories;
• custom orthotics to keep your arch supported and reduce pain;
• corticosteroid injections;
• surgery in some cases.

Home Foot Care and Prevention

• Use the RICE Method: Rest, icing, compression and elevation will ease the pain and swelling of your feet and heels. You can also try over-the-counter pain medications.
• Wear Orthotics: Dr. Shuman can craft custom orthotics that will distribute pressure more evenly through your foot, realign your ligaments and give you steady arch support.
• Reduce the Impact: Avoid high-impact sports and other activities that will put pressure on your tendons. Wear well-fitting, supportive shoes and avoid high heels.
• Monitor Your Health: Treat conditions that can cause or exacerbate flat feet, such as obesity, diabetes and arthritis. If exercise is part of your routine, make sure you wear supportive footwear and avoid running on hard surfaces.
• Call a Podiatrist: If your symptoms are severe, schedule an appointment with Shuman Podiatry. There’s no need to continue suffering when expert medical help is just a phone call away.

Don’t Be Flattened

At Shuman Podiatry, we know that healthy feet are the foundation of a full and healthy life. Don’t let foot pain stop you from doing the things you love. Call Shuman Podiatry and learn how you can bounce back from flat feet.

About: Dr Shuman provides podiatry services in Potomac Falls, Sterling, Ashburn, Lansdowne and Leesburg Va.  Shuman Podiatry offers: custom orthotics, diabetic foot care, heel pain and spurs, wart removal and more.  Contact Dr Shuman today for all your foot care needs.