Here's How Custom Orthotics Can Help Flat Feet

If you have pain or other issues because of flat feet, custom orthotics can provide the relief you need to stay physically active.

At Foot and Ankle Specialists, with locations in Memorial City, The Woodlands, and Huntsville, Texas, our experienced podiatrists offer custom orthotics to address a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, including flat feet. This nonsurgical strategy can also provide the support you need to prevent additional complications later in life.

What to know about flat feet

Having flat feet means the arches on the inside of your feet lay flat against the floor when you’re standing.

All babies are born with flat feet, but over time their arches develop further. For some people, arch development doesn’t happen as it should. You might also be at a higher risk for flat feet due to:

• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Foot injuries
• Rheumatoid arthritis

Your risk for flat feet also increases as you get older, and your feet go through age-related changes that collapse your arches.

Common issues flat feet can cause

Many people with flat feet have no issues. However, some can develop persistent pain in the arches of their feet or experience heel pain, especially when they’re being physically active.

Swelling may also be an issue for some with flat feet. If pain or swelling interferes with your mobility or with certain activities, schedule a diagnostic evaluation with our providers at Foot and Ankle Specialists.

We offer comprehensive physical exams to assess the structure of your feet and how your symptoms affect your mobility. Based on the results of your exam, our podiatrists can recommend a treatment strategy that may include custom orthotics.

How custom orthotics can resolve flat feet distress

Orthotics are shoe inserts that provide additional support to your feet and ankles. Orthotics can also supply extra cushioning to prevent unnecessary wear and tear on your feet and ankle joints.

We offer custom orthotics that mold to your unique foot. Our providers take careful measurements of your feet to ensure a great fit. There are two types of custom orthotics available at our office:

Soft orthotics

Soft orthotics are made of silicone gel or foam rubber. The soft materials reduce pressure on your feet to prevent pain.

Rigid orthotics

Rigid orthotics are made with hard plastic and carbon fiber to provide even more support for your feet and ankles and to keep your joints in proper alignment.

If you have flat feet, we can customize orthotics that hold your foot in a raised position to prevent your sole from flattening against the floor. Arch support orthotics can help prevent foot pain and reduce stress on your knee joints and legs.

While you can get shoe inserts at retail stores, they may not work as well as custom orthotics. The orthotics we offer are also made of highly durable materials to ensure you can use them for the long term.

If you have flat feet and want to know more about how custom orthotics can relieve your foot and ankle pain, call the Foot and Ankle Specialists office near you or schedule a consultation online today.