How Flat Feet Affect Your Health & How Chiropractic Can Help
Have you been diagnosed with flat feet? If so, you probably understand that you need orthotics in your shoes. Otherwise, you could be at a greater risk of developing foot pain and heel pain. It is important to take a closer look at some of the health problems that can be caused by flat feet. That way, you understand the treatment options that are available. What is meant by flat feet, and what are some of the treatment options? Keep reading to find out.
What Are Flat Feet?
First, it is important to understand what is meant by flat feet. When we say that someone has flat feet, we mean that they do not have any arches in their feet at all. There are some people who have slightly reduced arches, but if you have flat feet, you do not have any arches in your feet at all.
As a result, the bones in your feet make a direct line from your toes to your heel. Because of this, there is no arch available to absorb the shock of walking and running, and that is where a lot of the symptoms and health problems created by flat feet can arise.
What Symptoms and Conditions Can Flat Feet Cause?
There are some people who have flat feet who might not have any symptoms, but with extended activity, you can develop some significant discomfort. For example, you may experience foot pain, particularly in the heel or arch. If you continue to place stress on flat feet, you may notice swelling along the inside of the ankle. Then, you might notice knee pain and hip pain if you do not develop a comprehensive plan to address this condition.
There are certain chronic medical conditions that can develop from flat feet as well. A few of the top examples include:
- A greater risk of developing arthritis
- An increased chance of developing bone spurs
- A higher frequency of bunions and calluses
- The development of lower back pain, knee pain, hip pain, and ankle pain
- The development of shin splints
These chronic medical conditions can have a negative impact on your overall quality of life, which is why it is important to work with a professional who can help you develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
What Are the Treatment Options?
If you have been diagnosed with flat feet, you might have been told that you need surgical correction. It is true that you can go to the operating room to have your bones put back together, and that might be appropriate for people with severe, intractable symptoms; however, a chiropractor can help you manage flat feet without having to go to an operating room.
First, a chiropractor can develop custom orthotics that you can put in your shoes. That way, you have the support you need, and you can minimize many of the symptoms and complications above. Then, a chiropractor can also perform adjustments on areas of your body that may be developing chronic pain.
For example, a chiropractor can perform spinal adjustments to help you manage lower back pain. Then, a chiropractor can also perform extremity adjustments to make sure your feet, ankles, knees, and hips are comfortable and in alignment.
Rely on a Chiropractor To Help You Manage Flat Feet
Flat feet is a remarkably common orthopedic condition. While it can have a negative impact on your overall quality of life, it is not something that you need to manage on your own. You want to reach out to a chiropractor who can conduct a comprehensive examination and provide you with a customized treatment plan.
If you don’t have a local chiropractor and are looking for one to help you overcome the symptoms related with flat feet, then give us a call. We’re always here to help and would love serving you!