Orthotics and Flat Feet

By Heather L. Wilson, DPM

The foot is supported by the main supportive structure of the arch. If the arch is collapsed or flattened, other joints begin to compensate. This can lead to foot pain during walking as well as other foot ailments. Flat feet can also lead to pain, and fatigue in other body parts such as the lower back, knees, hips and ankles.

Some people inherit their flat feet. In addition, flat feet may also be acquired through trauma, overuse activity or various arthritic conditions. It is important to be evaluated and treated by a podiatrist who will perform a complete examination and gait analysis of your feet.

Indeed, the right shoe is important. However, the answer to the pain relief may result from orthotics inserts that are designed for your shoegear.

Unlike the shoegear, the orthotics will provide arch support as well as motion control. Most people with flat feet will have a pronation motion when they walk. The orthotic device will control this motion while supporting the arch. Thus the body is functioning in the right biomechanical alignment.

Your podiatrist can take moldings of your feet and have them custom fabricated in an orthotic laboratory for your specific condition.

In addition to flat feet, the following are conditions that may also benefit from orthotics

Heel pain/plantar fasciitis

Bunions

Ankle conditions such as Achilles tendonitis

Metatarsalgia (pain in the balls of the feet)

Morton's neuroma

Shin splints

Back and knee pain

If you have any of these foot problems, you should see a podiatrist.