Effective foot care is critical to your overall health and wellness, as it helps prevent foot issues, especially for people with existing health conditions. Cleaning your feet with soap and water is the first step to keeping your feet healthy. Wearing fitting shoes and good quality socks is also important.

Having a trusted foot care specialist also promotes your feet health by providing reasonable medical care in case of issues. Colorado Springs flat feet specialists at Foot and Ankle Institute of Colorado provide effective care to restore your feet’ health and life quality.

Call to make your consultation today and find the available treatment options for a flat heel.

What are flat feet?

A flat foot is a condition where your foot’s arch is lower than normal. It means that your whole foot sole touches the floor when you are standing or moving.

The problem is common during childhood but can also develop from an injury or the normal degeneration resulting from aging.

Some people may not have any problems with flat feet, while for others, the problem changes the leg alignment and may lead to pain in your foot, ankles, and lower back.

What are the symptoms of flat feet?

You may not experience any symptoms with flat feet, especially during the early stages. But, as the issue develops, you might encounter pain in your arches or heels which usually worsens during exercise or physical activity. It is also possible to experience swelling on the inner part of your ankles.

What are the risk factors for flat feet?

Flat feet can happen to anyone despite their age, sex, or race. However, some factors may promote your chances of having the problem, such as;

·         Diabetes

·         Being overweight

·         Rheumatoid arthritis

·         Being middle-aged or older

You are also at risk of having flat feet if you have a history of foot or ankle injuries like dislocation.

Flat feet diagnosis

Your provider at Foot and Ankle Institute of Colorado conducts a comprehensive diagnosis that includes a physical exam on your feet and ankles, monitoring your feet from all sides, and assessing your symptoms.

Your provider may also request you to stand on your toes and review the wear pattern on your shoes. He may order more tests such as X-rays or an MRI to have a clear image of the joints, bones, and other tissues in your feet.

What are the treatment options for flat feet?

Your provider will recommend treatment depending on your symptoms and their effects on your life quality. For mild or moderate cases of flat feet, the treatments may include:

·         Stretching exercises

·         Physical therapy

·         Supportive shoes

·         Custom made orthotics

When your pain does not improve with conservative techniques, your provider may suggest surgical intervention. There is no specific surgical procedure for flat feet. But, your provider may apply surgery to fix a related issue like a torn or damaged tendon.

Contact a flat feet specialist today.

When not treated, flat feet may have affected your life quality negatively, including limited mobility. Don’t wait longer; let the specialists at Foot and Ankle Institute of Colorado take care of you. Call to reserve your consultation today.