Flatfeet is a common condition and is not an immediate cause for medical concern. However, some people do experience unwanted symptoms that impact their daily life. In those cases, an evaluation and treatment are necessary to address the condition. Below you will find the common signs you have flat feet.

Signs You Have Flat Feet

Flatfeet refers to a condition in which the arches on the inside of your feet flatten out when you put pressure on them. This occurs when you stand up as you’ll notice that the entire soles of your feet touch the floor. People with flatfeet also often have feet that point outward. Also referred to as “flatfoot,” flatfeet is a common condition and doesn’t require intervention as long as you don’t experience any symptoms.

While the condition is usually painless, some people do experience pain and other symptoms. Common symptoms that indicate a diagnosis of flatfeet include pain, difficulty moving your feet, issues with standing on your toes, swollen feet, aches and pains, or feet that easily get tired. Treatment is necessary if you experience symptoms associated with your flatfeet. A foot and ankle doctor in Beverly Hills can diagnose and treat the issue to alleviate your symptoms.

Causes of Flat Feet

There are a number of causes of flatfeet among both children and adults. Flatfeet are not unusual as Infants and toddlers can have the condition when they are young. This is because arch development generally occurs during childhood. Some children also have a condition called “flexible flatfeet” where the child appear to have flatfeet when they sit or stand on their tippy toes, but not when they stand with their feet planted firmly on the ground. This is something they generally outgrow and does not impact them in adulthood.

Adults can have flatfeet if they did not outgrow the condition during childhood. However, they can also develop flatfeet even if their arches are fully developed during childhood. The natural wear and tear of life or even a serious injury can cause your arch to collapse. This can happen over time or abruptly depending on the cause. This occurs because the tendon that helps support your arch weakens or tears. It’s important to get treatment right away if this occurs as you can develop arthritis in your foot.

Risk Factors

There are a number of factors that increase your risk for the condition.

• Obesity: Excess weight can put extra pressure on your body, including your feet. The additional wear and tear on your feet can lead to your arch collapsing.
• Injury: Serious injuries to your foot or ankle can cause your arch to collapse immediately.
• Diabetes: Those with diabetes can be impacted by a condition called Charcot. This condition can lead to flatfoot as the condition causes deformities in the foot.
• Aging: The natural wear and tear of life can impact your feet. In some cases, your arch can collapse when you get older.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: This condition is associated with flatfeet. In fact, arthritis can lead to flat feet and flat feet can also cause arthritis. A diagnosis of either should alert you to be cautious about the other.

Treatment Flat Feet

Flatfeet is not considered a serious condition as many people can live with it without issue. However, others require treatment due to the unwanted symptoms associated with the condition. If you experience any of the symptoms associated with flatfeet or if those symptoms limit your regular daily routine, contact a professional. Treatment for flatfoot in Los Angeles can address your unwanted symptoms and help you feel better.