Adults with flat feet have fallen arches or collapsed arches, meaning there is no discernible arch in the foot. The majority of adults have flat feet without any issues, but if the condition results in discomfort, muscle pain in the feet or legs, pain when walking, stiffness, or mobility issues, it may be time to visit a DFW podiatrist for an evaluation. 

Despite the discomfort that flat feet can cause, anyone of any age can benefit from a variety of effective treatments, including adults.

Can We Correct Flat Feet Naturally?

Even though conservative treatments won’t eliminate flat feet, they might help with symptoms.

Different Types Of Flat Feet

There are two varieties of flat feet.

The first is Flexible Flat Feet (FFF), often seen in childhood due to weakened muscles and lax ligaments of the foot. The foot has an arch when you’re lying down, but it disappears when you put weight on it.

The second is Rigid Flat Feet (RFF) which are characterized by feet that don’t change shape when weight is applied or removed. The foot’s range of motion is limited and it is stiff. 

Causes Of Flat Feet In Adults

Adults do not lose their flat feet over time as children do. Adults may experience flat feet for a variety of reasons, including:

• Trauma or injury
• Arthritis
• Having weak arches
• The disease of the muscular or nervous system
• Having a condition such as tarsal coalition or diabetes
• Being overweight

Other reasons for adult flat feet include:

Age

The risk of flat feet is highest in sedentary adults over the age of 40.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy can lead to flat feet.

Overweight

The arch of the feet may become weaker and be under pressure from excessive weight.

Illness That Is Not Under Control

People are more likely to develop flat feet if they have diseases like diabetes, hypertension, or rheumatoid arthritis.

Injury

An injury like a broken bone or stretched tendon can cause flatfoot to develop.

Symptoms Of Flat Feet

Some people don’t even realize they have flat feet until they start to hurt. They typically experience this as their initial symptom. Adult-onset flat feet frequently manifest as:

• Foot deformity
• Pain while standing or walking
• Pain in the ankle
• Swelling in the feet and ankles
• Visible lack of an arch

Visit your podiatrist if you’re feeling any symptoms. To diagnose you and identify the root of your condition, he will look at your feet.

Diagnosis And Treatment For Flat Feet In Adults

Contact a DFW podiatrist for an assessment if flat feet are causing you pain or discomfort. A podiatrist can identify flat feet by looking at and assessing your feet’s arches. Additionally, imaging tests may be prescribed to examine your feet’s bone structure.

Adults with flat feet can benefit from a number of treatments. In order to get you back to enjoying the activities you want to do, flat feet must first be treated in order to lessen pain. In DFW, a podiatrist might advise one of the following therapies:

• Medication. The discomfort and inflammation in the feet can be treated with medication, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Symptoms can also be alleviated by rest and ice.
• Supportive devices. Custom orthotics for your shoes or braces for your feet or legs can add stability and support.
• Therapy and exercise. The tendons and muscles in the feet may require stretching and strengthening through physical therapy. To improve flexibility and mobility, certain exercises might be suggested.

If you have persistent foot pain, difficulty standing, or are unable to perform your daily activities because of the discomfort of your condition, surgery may be an option to consider for some patients. Adults with flat feet can undergo a variety of surgeries, including:

• Joint fusion
• Achilles lengthening
• Tendon transfer
• Ligament repair
• Osteotomy

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