Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole of the foot to make contact with the ground. While some individuals are born with flat feet, others develop this condition over time due to various factors.
But the impact of flat feet is not just restricted to the collapse of your feet’s arch. If left untreated, it can lead to a variety of other problems.
Table of Contents
Understanding Flat Feet
Your feet are like the foundation of a building. A strong and sturdy foundation provides support and balance, ensuring the entire structure remains solid. Similarly, in our body, the arches of our feet act as natural shock absorbers, distributing the impact of each step evenly.
However, in the case of flat feet, this foundation weakens. And in such a case, the first and foremost thing to do is go to a foot and ankle specialist. That’s because if you ignore it, you can end up contracting many other foot problems.
How Flat Feet Impacts Your Body?
Overpronation
Flat feet often lead to overpronation, a condition where the foot rolls inward excessively during walking or running. This unnatural motion can put a strain on your ankle, knee, and hip joints.
Foot Pain And Fatigue
Without proper arch support, the muscles and ligaments in the feet have to work harder to support the body’s weight. As a result, you will feel foot pain and fatigue, especially after prolonged periods of walking or standing.
Plantar Fasciitis
The plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, can become overstressed and inflamed due to the lack of arch support. This condition is called plantar fasciitis. It is characterized by sharp heel pain, especially while taking the first steps in the morning. You might get some relief with Selphyl Ortho.
Achilles Tendonitis
Flat feet can also lead to overstretching and inflammation of the Achilles tendon. This large tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. When strained, it can cause pain and stiffness at the back of the ankle.
Shin Splints
The excessive rolling of the foot can lead to increased stress on the shinbone. This can result in painful shin splints, a condition characterized by sharp pain along the front of the lower leg.
Knee And Hip Problems
The misalignment caused by flat feet can affect the alignment of the entire leg. This often leads to issues like knee pain and hip pain and even contributes to lower back problems with time.
Addressing Flat Feet And Associated Issues
Orthotic Inserts
Much like inserting a support beam under a sagging floor, orthotic inserts provide the necessary support for flat feet. These inserts make it easy to restore the natural arch of the foot, reducing overpronation and relieving pain associated with it.
Strengthening Exercises
Engaging in specific foot-strengthening exercises can help improve the stability and strength of the muscles in the feet. These exercises are likely to reinforce the foundation of a building for added stability.
Choosing Supportive Footwear
Opt for shoes with proper arch support and cushioning. Well-supporting footwear will provide a solid base for a structure to ensure stability and durability.
Avoiding High-Impact Activities
Just as you would avoid putting excessive weight on a weakened foundation, individuals with flat feet should steer clear of high-impact activities like running on hard surfaces, which can aggravate existing problems.
Seeking Professional Advice
Consulting a podiatrist or orthopedic specialist is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. A specialist can recommend specific interventions or physical therapies based on the severity of your flat feet and the problems associated with them.
Final Words
Ignoring your flat feet can start a chain reaction, leading to several other problems. Understanding the impact of flat feet and taking proactive steps to address them can prevent long-term issues and improve the overall health of your foot.
