What Is the Issue With Having Flat Feet?

Are you struggling with flat feet? This common condition occurs when the arches of your feet are flattened, causing the entire sole of your foot to contact the ground. 

While you may not experience any symptoms, some people encounter various issues that affect their daily lives. 

Located in the Lower Pacific Heights area of San Francisco and San Jose, California, Andrew R. Harrison, DPM, is a flat-foot expert who treats children, teens, and adults. 

In this blog, we’ll explore the potential problems associated with flat feet and how they can impact your overall foot health. 

Pain and discomfort 

In some cases, flat feet often means dealing with persistent pain and discomfort, especially after long periods of standing and walking. Here’s why: 

Lack of arch support 

The arches of your feet act as natural shock absorbers, distributing your body’s weight evenly. Without proper arch support, you may experience strain on the muscles and ligaments of your feet and ankles. 

Overpronation

Flat feet can lead to overpronation, where your feet roll inward with each step. This misalignment can stress your ankles, knees, hips, and lower back, resulting in pain and discomfort throughout your body. 

Plantar fasciitis 

Additionally, flat feet can increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis. This condition causes stabbing pain in your heel and arch, particularly in the morning or after long periods of rest. 

Foot abnormalities 

Depending on your specific condition, flat feet can sometimes contribute to the development of foot abnormalities, such as: 

Bunions

Flat feet can lead to an increased risk of developing bunions, which are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of your big toe. Bunions are painful and may require surgical intervention to correct. 

Hammertoes 

Hammertoes are a condition in which the toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. They are often the result of flat feet. This can cause discomfort and difficulty wearing certain types of shoes. 

Limited mobility and activity 

Flat feet can impact your mobility and limit participation in certain activities, including: 

Sports 

If you have flat feet, you might experience difficulty participating in high-impact sports or activities that require quick changes in direction, such as basketball or soccer. Without proper arch support, your feet may be more prone to injury. 

Standing occupations 

Jobs requiring prolonged standing periods, such as retail or health care, can be especially challenging if you have flat feet. Without proper support, you might experience extra fatigue and discomfort throughout the workday.  

While having flat feet can present its fair share of challenges, it’s important to remember that there are many ways to manage and alleviate any issues as they arise. 

So, if you’re experiencing persistent pain or discomfort related to flat feet, don't hesitate to contact Dr. Harrison and schedule an appointment to discuss your options today!