Can Custom Orthotics Help My Flat Foot Condition?

Flat feet, or fallen arches, are more common than you might think, and they can cause a lot of discomfort in your daily activities. If you’ve been struggling with foot pain, you might be wondering whether custom orthotics can provide the relief you’ve been looking for. 

Don’t worry. Board-certified podiatrist Andrew R. Harrison, DPM, located in the Lower Pacific Heights area of San Francisco and San Jose, California, is here to help you explore how custom orthotics work. We’ll also discuss their benefits for flat feet and when to consider them as part of your treatment. 

What are flat feet?

First, flat feet occur when the arch of your foot doesn’t develop properly or collapses over time, leading to your entire foot making contact with the ground. This condition can be present from childhood or develop later due to aging, injury, or other factors like struggling with your weight. 

Here are a few common symptoms of flat feet to look out for: 

• Pain in your arch, heel, or ball of your foot
• Swelling along the inside of your ankle 
• Difficulty standing on your toes 
• Tired or aching feet after long periods of standing or walking 

How do custom orthotics work?

Custom orthotics are specially designed shoe inserts tailored to your feet’s shape and needs. Unlike over-the-counter insoles, custom orthotics are made from molds of your feet, creating a precise fit and targeted support. They help redistribute your weight and correct improper foot alignment, plus the following: 

Support the arch

By providing your arch with the support it lacks, orthotics relieve pressure on the other parts of your foot. 

Improve alignment

Orthotics help align your foot and ankle and improve overall posture. 

Reduce pain

By addressing the source of your pain, custom orthotics bring relief to not only your feet but also your knees and back.

When should you consider custom orthotics? 

Not everyone with flat feet needs custom orthotics. However, they can be a great solution if you experience pain or discomfort that interferes with your daily life. Here are some signs it might be time to visit our office and consider custom orthotics: 

• Regular pain in your feet, ankles, or knees
• Trouble walking or standing for extended periods
• Over-the-counter insoles don’t work
• You have other issues like plantar fasciitis or shin splints 

Ultimately, if flat feet are causing you discomfort, custom orthotics might be the solution you’ve been looking for. With their ability to provide personalized support, improve foot alignment, and prevent future problems, custom orthotics can help you live more comfortably and stay active. 

If you’re ready to learn more, contact Dr. Harrison and schedule an appointment to see if custom orthotics might be the right solution for you.