The Problem with Flat Feet

Many people have flat feet—characterized by a partial or total loss of arch. In some patients, the condition starts when they are children and progresses into adulthood without any pain or discomfort. Flat feet can, however, cause pain and inflammation in the foot, ankle, and lower leg and may lead to other conditions such as plantar fasciitis,  bunions, and hammertoes. Symptoms that are specifically linked to flat feet include: pain in the heel, arch, or ankle and pain along the outside of the foot; ankles that tend to roll in; shin splints; lower back, hip or knee pain; a general feeling of aching and fatigue in the feet or legs. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or other pain or unusual changes in your feet, it’s time to come in to Southern Maryland Foot & Ankle for an evaluation.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Our board certified foot and ankle surgeon, Dr. Larry Hotchkiss, will start with a complete examination of your foot and will want to see what it looks like when you are standing on it and when it has no weight on it. Digital x-rays, which can be done in either our Waldorf or Clinton office, will help the foot doctor determine the severity of the condition. Once confirmed, there are a number of treatment options aimed at relieving the pain and preventing it or at least lessening it in the future. These include:

• Medications: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen to reduce pain and inflammation
• Rest: temporarily cutting back on standing and walking for long periods of time and other activities that cause pain; the podiatrist may recommend a walking cast or immobilization if it is necessary to prevent any weight-bearing and allow the foot to heal
• Footwear modifications: Choosing shoes with good arch support can help relieve pain and prevent excessive stretching for the plantar fascia
• Orthotic devices: can also provide arch support that is lacking naturally
• Physical therapy
• Weight loss: less weight means less of a burden on your arches and feet, which can reduce painful symptoms

Don’t suffer needlessly. Contact our offices or request an appointment online and get on the road to relief today.