Flat Feet

Flat feet occur when the feet don’t develop a normal arch, with the entire foot making contact with the ground when standing or walking. Flat feet can be diagnosed in childhood or adolescence, and are sometimes naturally corrected without treatment. When flat feet continue into adulthood, intervention is necessary. Flat feet can cause pain or difficulty walking, and can lead to swelling or even pain throughout the legs and up into the back. Pain relief is an effective treatment for symptoms, and physical therapy and prescribed orthotics can help to correct problems. Surgery is also a potential treatment in severe cases and can include removal of abnormal bone growths, fusing of bones, or tendon transfer or bone grafting.