Flatfeet – Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
Screening and Exams
A doctor usually examines the feet from several directions while the person stands and walks. The doctor may ask the person to rise onto their toes to check if the arches appear and to see how the ankles move.
The doctor checks the strength of the ankle muscles and looks for pain or swelling. The way shoes wear out can also reveal clues about foot alignment and structure.
This hands-on assessment helps the doctor spot signs of fallen arches, arch pain, or trouble with the posterior tibial tendon or Achilles tendon.
Imaging and Diagnostic Checks
Doctors use several types of scans and imaging tools to gather more details. Common imaging tests include:
| Tool | What it Shows | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| X-ray | Bones, joints, overall alignment | Find bone problems, check for arch collapse, arthritis, or alignment issues |
| CT scan | Cross-section images of the foot | Offers a detailed view, useful for seeing complex foot structures and severe causes of flat feet like pes planovalgus |
| Ultrasound | Soft tissues, especially tendons | Helps detect tears in the posterior tibial tendon or swelling around the Achilles tendon |
| MRI | Bones and soft tissues in deep detail | Good for finding soft tissue problems, tendon injuries, and other hidden causes of foot pain |
Doctors combine exam findings with test results to figure out if symptoms like fatigue, pain, or trouble standing come from rigid flat feet, arch collapse, or other problems.
Treatment
Non-Surgical Care
If pain from flatfeet occurs, providers may recommend using arch supports or orthotic inserts. These supports can be store-bought or custom-made to fit the foot.
Though these supports do not change the foot’s shape, they often help ease symptoms. Physical therapy and stretching routines are often suggested, especially for a tight Achilles tendon.
Exercises can help strengthen the foot and leg muscles or improve flexibility. A physical therapist can teach these activities and may help adjust walking patterns.
Wearing supportive footwear and, at times, using braces can also help reduce discomfort.
Surgical Options
Surgery is not a common approach for flatfeet and is not used just to change how the feet look. Doctors may consider surgery if pain still limits daily activities after trying non-surgical options.
Surgical procedures may repair bones or tendons to improve function and reduce pain. Recovery takes time and results can vary for each person.
Everyday Tips and Home Methods
People can reduce foot pain from flat feet by making some daily changes. Using well-fitting, supportive shoes helps cushion the feet and support the arches.
Arch supports or inserts from the store can make standing and walking more comfortable. Keeping a healthy weight is important because extra weight puts more strain on the feet.
Taking breaks and avoiding activities that make pain worse can help.
| Home Tip | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Supportive shoes | Cushion and support the feet |
| Arch supports | Help relieve foot pressure |
| Rest | Reduce irritation and pain |
| Maintain a healthy weight | Lessen stress on the arches |
| Over-the-counter pain relievers | Ease discomfort |
Getting Ready for Your Visit
Steps You Can Take
Wear your usual shoes to the clinic so your podiatrist can check the wear patterns.
Before your visit, write down:
- When you started feeling pain or noticed issues
- Any health problems besides your foot concerns
- Family history of flat feet
- Past injuries to your feet or ankles
- Medications and supplements you use
Bringing a written list of this information can help make your appointment smoother.
What Your Provider Might Ask
A podiatrist or foot specialist will ask questions to learn more about your condition.
These questions may include:
| Question Topic | Example Questions |
|---|---|
| Pain | Where is the pain? What does it feel like? |
| Triggers and Relief | What makes it better or worse? |
| Footwear Impact | Do certain shoes change your symptoms? |
| Past Care | Have you used any arch supports? |
| Daily Life | How does the pain affect your activities? |
Prepare clear answers to help your provider understand your situation.
