Flat Feet

Arches act as shock absorbers for your feet. Without them, your feet are prone to pain, injury, and other uncomfortable problems. If you have flat feet, a condition in which your arches don’t lift off the ground, Stephanie Parks, DPM, Justin Ward, DPM, and the team provide comprehensive care at Bosque Foot and Ankle in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The team works with you to relieve pain, reduce your risk of injury, find solutions, and improve your foot function. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.

What are flat feet?

Flat feet occur when the tendons and ligaments that connect the heel to the front of the foot don’t adequately form or weaken, resulting in no visible arch. This means your feet appear flat on the ground when you stand. 

Arches support the feet and help distribute body weight evenly during activities like walking and running. When these supportive structures collapse, the feet can’t properly absorb shock or maintain stability.

Are flat feet dangerous?

While flat feet aren’t inherently dangerous, they can increase your risk of multiple foot and ankle conditions, including:

• Overpronation (excessive rolling inward)
• Misalignment
• Hammertoes
• Bunions
• Plantar fasciitis and heel pain
• Balance issues
• Foot fatigue
• Arthritis
• Shin splints

Flat feet also increase your risk of injuries during activities like running, walking, and other weight-bearing exercises, as the lack of arch support can strain the joints and soft tissues.

What causes flat feet?

Flat feet, or fallen arches, can be caused by various factors. Some of the common causes include:

Genetics

If flat feet run in your family, you’re at an increased risk of inheriting the same trait.

Muscle or ligament weakness

Weakness in the muscles and ligaments supporting the arch can cause flat feet. This weakness may be present from birth or develop over time.

Foot or ankle injury

Trauma to the foot or ankle, such as a sprain or fracture, can lead to changes in foot structure and contribute to the development of flat feet.

Arthritis

Inflammatory joint conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can affect the joints in the feet and increase your risk of flat feet.

Excess weight

Excess body weight can put additional stress on the feet and weaken their supportive structures, increasing the risk of flat feet.

What are the most effective treatments for flat feet?

Flat feet don’t always require treatment, but the Bosque Foot and Ankle team may recommend professional intervention if you struggle with pain, instability, or any other uncomfortable symptoms. Effective treatments for flat feet include:

• Custom-made orthotics (which provide cushion and support)
• Footwear modifications (avoiding shoes without proper arch support)
• Weight loss
• Ankle bracing
• Physical therapy
• Stretching exercises
• Surgery

Avoiding high-impact exercises and standing for long periods can also reduce inflammation and soreness associated with flat feet.

Call Bosque Foot and Ankle or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about flat feet.