Though normally a painless condition, for some, flat feet can lead to lingering foot and ankle pain. If your flat feet are affecting your daily life, some of Southfield, Michigan’s top podiatrists, Randy Leff, DPM, and Kevin Sorensen, DPM, of Michfoot Surgeons PC can help. Book your flat feet evaluation and start your treatment plan by clicking on the online scheduler. You can also call the office directly to speak with a team member.
Flat Feet Q & A
Why do I have flat feet?
Sometimes flat feet are something that runs in your family. Other times, flat feet develop later on in life (acquired adult flatfoot deformity). Flat feet can form due to:
- Excess body weight (obesity)
- Foot injury or trauma
- Rheumatoid arthritis
Your arches also fall naturally over time due to wear-and-tear as you get older. Just because you have flat feet doesn’t necessarily mean you need treatment though. It’s important to understand when it’s time to seek medical intervention for your flat feet, before pain and inflammation start affecting your daily life.
When should I see a doctor for flat feet?
Flat feet can lead to a wide variety of issues that aren’t just associated with your feet. When your arches fall, your entire gait — the way you walk and stand — changes. Not only can you develop foot and ankle pain, but you can also have issues that affect your knees, hips, and even lower back. It’s important to schedule a flat feet examination at Michfoot Surgeons PC if you experience:
- Heel or arch pain
- Swelling along the inside of your ankle
- Foot or ankle pain that worsens with activity
Even if you have indirect pain, such as lower back pain, Dr. Leff and Dr. Sorensen can still help. Whether your flat feet are just starting to lead to problems, or if you’ve suffered from chronic foot pain for years, the caring team at Michfoot Surgeons PC offer plenty of effective treatment solutions.
Do I need treatment for flat feet?
Generally, you only need treatment for flat feet if they’re starting to cause pain and inflammation, but Dr. Leff and Dr. Sorensen may also suggest starting a treatment plan if your gait is off. Depending on the cause of your flat feet and severity of your symptoms, your flat feet treatment plan can include:
- Custom-designed orthotic inserts
- Daily stretching exercises
- Physical therapy sessions
- Supportive footwear
Even though surgery alone won’t correct flat feet, Dr. Leff and Dr. Sorensen may suggest surgery to help with an underlying condition. For instance, if your arches fell due to a tendon tear or rupture, you might need a minimally invasive procedure to graft or repair your damaged tendons. Rest assured, the dedicated team at Michfoot Surgeons PC work diligently to help you get relief from flat feel discomfort.
If you have flat feet, the expert podiatrists at Michfoot Surgeons PC have a solution. Get the help you need by booking a consultation online or over the phone.