Flat feet are quite a common condition that takes place when the feet are pressed flat while standing. It usually is not a severe problem and does not prevent people from conducting any physical activity. However, there are certain situations when visiting a podiatrist like Selin Sakarcan is suggested for flat feet. If one develops balance problems due to flat feet, or feels stiffness or pain on their feet, then consulting a podiatrist would be a good idea. A professional medical expert must also be consulted if a person with flat feed frequently gets foot or ankle injuries.
People with flat feet do not have arches on the inside of their feet. Rather, their entire sole lies flat while touching the floor. This condition is pretty common among toddlers as their arches still need to develop, and they usually do during childhood. Typically, people who do not have arches on their feet as adjusts undergo an injury or wear-and-tear of the tendons in the feet that leads to this condition. It is common for people to have arches of varying sizes. If one thinks that they have flat feet, they must see a doctor to confirm their condition. It is smart to visit the podiatrist while wearing a frequently worn shoe. The podiatrist may ask to observe the stresses on the shoes. In certain cases, a person has to undergo imaging tests like MRI, ultrasound, CT scan or x-rays, to identify the source and location of the pain. In the absence of pain, there would be nothing to worry about when having flat feet. However, it is vital to note that having flat feet may contribute to issues in the knees and ankles owing to alignment issues. One may even experience pain during activities or swelling in the ankles due to flat feet. Therefore, it is always recommended to consult a podiatrist like Selin Sakarcan who can properly advise on the lifestyle changes to make or practices to follow, to steer clear of issues that might be caused by the flat feet.
Orthotic devices or arch supports, as well as supportive shoes, can be highly helpful for anyone with flat feet. Arch supports are meant to improve comfort and add support to the footwear. Orthotic devices can also be used to correct gait or structural abnormalities, as well as prevent additional problems from taking place. For people with flat feet, orthotic devices can be custom-made to give adequate support. The footwear available in the market is for the general public, and does not have the extra support needed by someone with flat feet. To reduce complications brought by having flat arches, one should get supportive shoes made for themselves that are designed to give extra comfort. While surgery is not always required for people with flat feet, a podiatrist may recommend going for a surgical procedure like a tendon rupture. More details about the issue of flat feet can be found online.
Bunionette is another common toe related issue that is similar to bunions. It refers to bumps that develop outside of the foot, right at the base of the fifth metatarsal bone or little toe. This condition results in the little toe pressing against toe adjacent to it and curling under it, and may cause pain and irritation. Bunionette may even give rise to the formation of calluses on the sole of the foot. This condition is easy to diagnose as the worsening bone alignment is visually apparent. Nonsurgical treatments for it include padding, shoe modifications and certain medications.