Did you know that studies show roughly 20-30% of the population has flat feet? While this condition is quite common, many people are unaware of the symptoms or how it can impact their daily lives. Recognizing the signs of flat feet early on is essential in managing pain and maintaining your overall foot health.
At Martin Foot & Ankle, we provide expert foot and ankle care for York, PA, residents. From diagnostics to personalized treatment, we help patients find relief from conditions like flat feet. If you’re dealing with discomfort or mobility issues, our experienced team is here to help. Schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward pain-free feet.
Understanding the symptoms of flat feet can empower you to take control of your foot health. Now, let's explore the five most common signs to look out for.
1. Pain or Discomfort in the Feet and Ankles
One of the earliest and most common signs of flat feet is persistent foot pain, particularly in the arch area, heel, or ankles. This discomfort is often caused by increased strain on the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the feet. Both flexible flat feet and rigid flat feet can cause pain due to excessive pressure and alignment issues. If you’re experiencing pain, especially in the foot arch, it’s time to consult a podiatrist for a physical exam to evaluate your condition.
2. Swelling Along the Inside of the Foot
Swelling along the inside of the ankle or arch is another common condition associated with fallen arches. When the arch collapses, it can lead to excess pressure on the tendons, including the Achilles tendon, causing inflammation. Over-the-counter arch supports or shoe inserts may help relieve pain temporarily, but physical therapy or other treatments may be required for further treatment, depending on the severity of the condition.
3. Difficulty Standing or Walking for Long Periods
Flat feet can cause fatigue and lower leg pain, making standing or walking for several weeks or longer increasingly uncomfortable. Adult acquired flat feet often develop in individuals who previously had a normal arch but later experience arch collapse due to various factors. This can change your gait and cause pain while walking or standing on hard ground. Using proper arch support or custom shoe inserts can help alleviate the strain on your feet and improve your endurance.
4. Arch Collapse
A visibly flat arch or flat arches when standing is one of the most common signs of flatfoot. In some cases, individuals may develop flexible flatfoot, where the arch is visible when not bearing weight but disappears when standing. This difference in foot arch alignment can lead to foot deformity, improper posture, and even lower leg pain. Severe cases may require further treatment, such as custom orthotics, tendon transfer surgery, or physical therapy, to address the issue.
5. Ankle Pain or Instability
Flat feet can lead to ankle pain and instability, as the bones and tendons in the foot are misaligned. This can increase the risk of ankle injuries, such as sprains, and make it difficult to engage in normal activities. For those with rigid flat feet or flexible flatfoot, strengthening exercises and arch support are often recommended to improve foot mechanics. In cases where the condition worsens or persists for several weeks, a podiatrist may suggest X-rays and other treatments to assess the extent of the problem.
The Long-Term Effects of Untreated Flatfoot or Fallen Arches
Ignoring flatfoot symptoms, whether flexible flat feet or rigid flat feet, can lead to progressive deformities and complications in the knees, hips, and lower back. The most common cause of flatfoot in adults is posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, which can cause pain on the inner side of the foot and lead to significant issues. Over time, adult-acquired flat feet become harder to manage, especially in severe cases where surgery or tendon transfer may be required.
Children can also have rigid flat feet secondary to congenital foot deformities which can be very painful and don't respond to the standard treatment such as over the counter inserts. Most people with flexible flatfoot do not experience problems, but for some, it can progress. A visible arch may develop or disappear depending on whether the foot is bearing weight. Rarely, conditions like an extra bone or high arches can also contribute to foot pain. It's essential to monitor a child's feet for any signs of issues, as early intervention can prevent long-term problems.
Non-surgical treatments, such as physical therapy, custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, can help relieve pain and prevent complications. Strengthening the posterior tibial tendon and supporting the foot can also assist in managing symptoms and reducing the likelihood of developing flat feet. Don't wait—early steps can make a big difference in preserving function and comfort.
Schedule Your Appointment Today for Expert Foot Care
Flat feet can cause discomfort and impact your mobility, but effective treatments are available to help you feel your best. Martin Foot & Ankle provides personalized care to address your symptoms and improve your foot health.
Don’t wait to take the first step toward pain-free feet. Schedule an appointment with Martin Foot & Ankle York, PA, today to explore solutions like custom orthotics, professional evaluations, and specialized treatment plans. We're here to help you get back on your feet with confidence—contact us now!
