Why Treat Flat Feet?
Addressing flat feet early can prevent more serious conditions down the line, much like fixing a small leak before it turns into a flood.
If you have flat feet along with pain in your feet, knees, hips or back, there’s a good chance that orthotic treatment of flat feet will reduce this pain.
Treating flat feet will improve your mobility and ability to walk, stand, and engage in daily activities without pain. It can also help restore a normal walking pattern, reducing stress on soft tissue structures and improving overall stability.
Flat feet left untreated can lead to heel pain, ankle pain, shin splints, and plantar fasciitis.
Long-term effects of flat feet can include arthritis, bunions, hammer toes, and posterior tibial tendonitis.
Flat Feet Treatment Options
At The Lower Limb Clinic, we offer a range of treatments tailored to your specific needs:
Custom Orthotics
Our custom orthotics provide optimal support and alignment for your feet. Custom orthotics help in realigning and supporting soft tissue structures, reducing pain and instability. We use advanced 3D scanning and gait analysis to create orthotics that fit perfectly and address your unique foot structure. Custom orthotics work like a tailored suit, fitting your feet precisely and providing support where you need it most.
Physical Therapy
We recommend exercises and stretches that strengthen the muscles in your feet and legs. Physical therapy can improve your foot posture and overall stability, reducing the symptoms of flat feet. By improving muscle strength and foot posture, physical therapy can also help reduce the feeling of tired and sore feet.
Lifestyle Modifications
Adjustments in your daily activities and footwear can make a big difference. We can recommend the best shoes for flat feet and walk you through changes to reduce stress on your feet.
Medical Interventions
In severe cases, medical treatments such as surgery or medication may be necessary. Our podiatrists will discuss all available options to ensure you receive the best care possible. We consider surgery as a last resort.
How Flat Foot Orthotics Should Be Made for People with Flat Feet
Treating flat feet with orthotics requires both precision and a deep knowledge of foot mechanics. We use the latest research and technology so that our orthotics are as effective and comfortable as possible.
Enhanced Arch Support with Medial Flange
To prevent your foot from rolling inward, flat feet orthotics should include a feature called a “medial flange.” This design helps the orthotic better cradle the inside of your foot. It spreads your weight over a larger area, reducing pressure and increasing support. This design ensures you don’t land on the inside edge of the orthotic, which can be uncomfortable. The orthotics should also cover the entire width of your foot, supporting the whole arch.
Precise Conformation to the Arch
Many orthotics don’t fit the arch well enough. Our orthotics fit snugly against your arch, leaving no gaps. This “total contact” fit is vital. A tight fit helps maintain your foot’s natural shape and prevents issues linked to flat feet. Looser orthotics won’t provide the arch with the support it needs, allowing the foot to flatten further.
Over-the-Counter vs. Custom Orthotics for Flat Feet
If you’re thinking you can just get an over-the-counter orthotic and that will solve your flat foot, think again. For mild cases, that can be a good option if combined with targeted exercises and stretches. But if your arch has fallen to the point of being obvious, OTC orthotics are unlikely to do much good. They simply do not provide enough support for those with moderate to severe flat feet.
That’s why we promote custom orthotics in combination with physical therapy and possibly some lifestyle changes. As they are hand made for your unique feet and their specific conditions, they are far more likely to have a positive impact than something designed for the average foot.
Choosing a Specialist in Orthotic Therapy
Orthotics aren’t as tightly regulated as other health industries, so you need to choose a practitioner with a track record in orthotic therapy. The Lower Limb Clinic has been designing and manufacturing custom orthotics in-house for over 20 years. We’ve had great success in combining orthotics with other treatments, as evidenced by the kind words our patients say about our clinic.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Don’t let flat feet hold you back any longer. Experience the difference that personalised treatment at The Lower Limb Clinic can make. Our expert team is ready to help you achieve better comfort, mobility, and overall foot health. Book your initial consultation today and take the first step towards better mobility and comfort. Click here to schedule your appointment or call us at 03 9532 7455.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the signs that I might have flat feet?
Common signs include foot pain, swelling, and difficulty standing or walking for long periods. If you have uneven wear on your shoes, that can indicate poor foot alignment.
Can flat feet be corrected without surgery?
Yes, flat feet can be treated with custom orthotics, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. Surgery is only considered for severe cases that don’t respond to other treatments.
Why Should I See A Podiatrist for Flat Feet?
A podiatrist can assess the foot’s function and identify issues such as over pronation, leg length difference, and inefficient lower limb function.
A podiatrist can provide expert care for flat feet, including orthotic insoles and exercises to improve muscle strength.
How long does it take to see results from treatment?
The timeline varies depending on the treatment plan and the severity of your condition. Many patients notice improvement within a few weeks of starting their treatment. Consistency in following the treatment plan is critical to achieving the best results.
Are custom orthotics effective for treating flat feet?
Absolutely. Custom orthotics provide the support and alignment your flat feet need, helping to ease any pains and improve foot function.
What lifestyle changes can help manage flat feet?
Wearing supportive shoes, avoiding prolonged standing in the same position, maintaining a healthy weight, and performing specific exercises can all help manage the symptoms of flat feet.
What types of shoes are best for flat feet?
Shoes with good arch support, a firm heel counter, and a cushioned sole are ideal for individuals with flat feet.
What are the risks of not treating flat feet?
If left untreated, flat feet can lead to chronic pain, an increased risk of injuries, and complications affecting the knees, hips, and lower back.
What exercises can help with flat feet?
Exercises like toe curls, arch lifts, and calf stretches can help strengthen the muscles in your feet and provide better arch support.
Feel free to reach out with any additional questions or to schedule your consultation today.
