Managing Flat Feet Pain: Tips for Relief and Comfort

Do you have flat feet that are causing pain and discomfort?

Call for an appointment and bring a bag of shoes that you commonly wear as shoes can exacerbate symptoms.

Managing the Pain and Discomfort of Flat Feet

 Having flat feet or fallen arches might not sound like a big deal – unless you’re the one living with them. If you are living with them, you know just how uncomfortable or painful they can be. 

Healthy arches allow the foot to flex and roll properly as we walk. Fallen arches mean that the foot can’t operate efficiently, so there is unnecessary strain on the feet, ankles, and lower legs. Fortunately, there are ways to find relief from your suffering.

Choose Proper Shoes

 Your shoes can go a long way in helping or worsening your pain. It’s important that you wear shoes that are compatible with the proper arch support. During your appointment, the right shoes for your foot type can be discussed. 

Arch support

 It can be difficult to find shoes with the right support. This is simply because they are made for a wide market, but not everyone’s foot is the same. As such, a wise option is to visit your podiatrist for a recommendation on the right inserts for your foot type.  There are many fantastic over the counter options as well as custom orthotics. Not everyone needs custom orthotics and an evaluation is needed before any arch support can be recommended.  

Physical Therapy

 Fallen arches put a great deal of strain on the soft tissues in the feet and legs. Targeted exercises can help relieve tension in the soft tissues, as well as strengthen the muscles of the feet, ankles, and calves to improve support.  Some patients do benefit from physical therapy but it isn't always necessary. 

Lifestyle Adjustments

 At times, it is necessary to change activities and exercise routines – or at least reduce them. Resting your feet is also an important step in relief.   Based on your symptoms and foot type, a treatment plan will be developed at your appointment. 

Surgery 

When not treated properly, fallen arches can lead to various injuries, such as shin splints, Achilles tendinitis, and more.  All conservative options should be exhausted before ever considering surgery.  Most patients do not need surgery for flat feet.  

You don’t have to let flat feet keep causing you pain. Visit Dr. Myers at Sellwood Podiatry in Southeast Portland, OR, for a customized relief plan. Call (503) 235-8594 to schedule an appointment today.