Many people never think to examine their feet until something goes wrong. We rub lotion on our hands and put makeup on our faces, but we often overlook the two body parts that get us from point A to point B and back again every single day.
As a result, you may not have noticed that you have flat feet. The condition, which is often painless, has many causes. Women are much more likely than men to develop flat feet, and sometimes only one foot is affected. Certain factors can increase a person’s chances of developing flat feet, such as:
- Obesity. Being overweight places extra stress on many parts of the body, including the feet and particularly the arches. The added strain can cause the tendons and ligaments that form the arch to gradually stretch and become more prone to injuries.
- Rheumatoid arthritis. While osteoarthritis causes problems in the joints of the foot and ankle, rheumatoid arthritis can lead to toe deformities, chronic pain, and ligament damage.
- Diabetes. Collapsed arches in people with diabetes can be more dangerous than in other individuals, since people with diabetes often have diminished sensation in their feet and are less able to feel pain. They may even experience fractures and bone disintegration without feeling pain.
- Age. People older than 50 are more likely to suffer from foot problems such as fallen arches, as they are more apt to have arthritis, osteoporosis, and weaker muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
While there are many causes of flat foot pain, there are also various treatments your Phoenixville foot specialist can prescribe. The health care team at Healthmark Foot & Ankle Associates is committed to getting you back on your feet and free of pain. Call either of our two convenient locations today to set up your first consultation. In Media, you can reach us at 610-565-3668, and in Phoenixville, you can reach us at 610-933-8644.
Want to read more about how to protect and care for your feet? Click the link on this page, and we’ll send you a FREE copy of our book The Foot Is Not an Island: Recognizing Vitamin D Deficiency & How to Correct It.