Flat feet, or fallen arches, is a condition in which the arches are flattened so that the entire sole touches the ground. The arches of the feet help with balance and flexibility, so various problems can develop if they are flat. Custom orthotics offer relief from pain, discomfort, and other issues by providing arch support. Dr. Larry Goldstein, the board-certified foot and ankle surgeon at Warner Robins Foot and Ankle in Warner Robins, GA, treats flat feet and can fit you for custom orthotics.

Signs and Symptoms of Flat Feet

The most obvious sign of having flat feet or fallen arches is having little to no arch on the bottom of the foot. Other signs and symptoms associated with flat feet include:

• An abnormal walking pattern
• Difficulty standing on your toes
• Swelling on the inside of the ankle
• Feet feel tired or achy after standing for extended periods
• Pain or discomfort in the heels or arches
• Rolled-in ankles

How Orthotics Help Flat Feet

Flat feet can cause pain, discomfort, and fatigue in the feet and ankles and increase the risk of developing foot conditions like plantar fasciitis. Low arches can also result in an abnormal walking pattern, which can lead to pain and discomfort. Additionally, flat feet can contribute to developing shin splints, leg fatigue, and pain in the hips, knees, or lower back.

One effective method for treating flat feet is placing orthotics inside shoes. Orthotics provide arch support, improve balance, and correct an abnormal gait or walking pattern. At our podiatry office in Warner Robins, GA, flat feet can be managed with custom orthotics that are tailor-made for a perfect fit.

Some of the ways custom orthotics help manage flat feet and provide relief include:

• Provide arch support
• Improve alignment of the feet and ankles
• Reduce or eliminate strain on the feet, legs, and lower back
• Correct an abnormal gait or walking pattern
• Minimize stress on the plantar fascia tendon
• Prevent swelling around the ankles
• Alleviate pain and discomfort
• Help stabilize the foot
• Improve balance

If you have flat feet or extremely low arches, custom orthotics can provide much-needed arch support and relief from pain and discomfort. Call Warner Robins Foot and Ankle in Warner Robins, GA, at (478) 328-2008 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Goldstein to learn more about how orthotics can help manage flat feet.