Flat Feet Specialist

What does it mean to have flat feet?

If you have flat feet, your foot arches touch the floor. Flat feet usually go straight across, but may have a very slight arch. You can inherit flat feet, but in some cases, your foot arches can fall (fallen arches) during adulthood. Obesity, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and injury can all contribute to flat feet. 

Does flatfoot cause symptoms?

In most cases, flatfoot doesn’t cause symptoms. But, in about 1 in 10 cases, flat feet is a serious problem because it causes foot pain, cramping, and even difficulty standing and walking. If you have flat feet and are suffering from pain or other foot issues, schedule an evaluation with Wake Forest Foot and Ankle as soon as possible. 

How do you diagnose flat feet?

Your Wake Forest Foot and Ankle podiatrist diagnoses flat feet after a careful exam and review of your symptoms. During your exam, your podiatrist may observe your foot movement as you sit, stand on the ground, stand on your toes, and do other foot exercises.  

Depending on your situation, your podiatrist may also use imaging tests like X-ray and ultrasound to check the inside of your foot for problems and changes. 

How can I develop a foot arch with flat feet?

Your Wake Forest Foot and Ankle podiatrist designs a personalized plan for arch development, so your flat feet treatment may include:

Prescription exercises

Your podiatrist may prescribe special foot exercises to gently stretch and strengthen your Achilles tendon. This can help you develop an arch over time.

Custom orthotics

Custom orthotics give you excellent arch support and gently encourage arch formation when you wear them consistently. 

Shoe changes

In some cases, your podiatrist may prescribe a new kind of footwear like minimalist shoes with a drop of 0-8 millimeters. 

If your flat feet still cause serious symptoms after trying the conservative approach, your podiatrist may recommend surgery. The Wake Forest Foot and Ankle podiatrists specialize in flatfoot surgery such as tendon repair, Achilles tendon-lengthening, bone fusion, and bone spur removal. 

For help with fallen arches or congenital flatfoot, call Wake Forest Foot and Ankle or click the online appointment scheduling tool around the clock.