How to Treat Flat Feet

Flat feet occurs when the muscles and tendons that support the arch weaken and the arch falls. Causes include stress on the feet. The stress may be caused by obesity and repetitive force on the feet. Medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and muscular dystrophy may also cause flat feet. Symptoms may include problems running, weakness and pain in the feet or ankle. There are ways to treat flat feet to reduce problems.

Instructions

• 1

  Treat the underlying medical condition. For example, losing weight if obese will reduce the amount of stress on the feet, and may prevent flat feet from getting worse.

• 2

  See a podiatrist. They are foot specialists. They will assess your condition through an exam, gait evaluation, medical history and x-rays. A podiatrist will develop a treatment plan with your specific cause of flat feet in mind.

• 3

  Use an arch support. These devices can be custom fit for your feet. They can be inserted into your shoes to provide arch support. If inserts don't elevate pain a brace might be ordered by your doctor.

• 4

  Take medications. Some people with flat feet experience pain. Because walking may be changed pain may also develop in the back and knees. Over the counter non-steroid anti-inflammatory medication may help.

• 5

  Modify activities. You may be advised to limit certain activities that may be putting stress on your feet. For example reducing time spent wearing high heals, or switching from high impact to lower impact exercises may help.

• 6

  Try physical therapy. Some cases of flat feet are caused by a tight tendon. Other cases are caused when the muscle or tendon become weak. A physical therapist will teach you stretching and strengthening exercises.

• 7

  Consider surgery. If pain is severe and persists even with other treatments surgery may be an option. Types of surgery performed will vary depending on the cause of your flat foot.