Flat Feet and Foot Pain: How to Relieve Discomfort

Do you have barely noticeable or nonexistent arches on your feet? If so, you are living with flat feet in Farmville and Richmond, VA. While it is not a life-threatening condition, it can cause foot pain and other localized pain. However, with professional care at New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery, you may find the relief you need. Dr. Asif Shah and Dr. Ehsan Kha are your local podiatry experts who have various methods to help you.

What Causes Flat Feet?

When you have healthy arches, the inner part of your feet should rise slightly off the floor. However, if your entire foot rests on the floor, you are flat-footed. Many people are born with this condition. However, the adult onset of fallen arches can also occur. Bearing excessive weight through obesity or the development of arthritis can create this condition.

Having previous foot or ankle injuries can put pressure on the foot area, causing the arches to fall. Over time, the condition can become painful and affect how you walk and your ability to exert yourself more. Under the care of your local podiatry team, you have methods to help relieve this pain.

How Can I Relieve the Pain?

When living with flat feet in Farmville and Richmond, VA, you should evaluate things in your lifestyle that may put pressure on your feet. For example, if you are overweight, getting your weight down can reduce pressure on your feet, which absorbs shock while bearing your weight. Your podiatrist can demonstrate exercises to stretch your lower extremity muscles. They can also recommend professional physical therapy.

You may need to make adjustments to the type of shoes you wear. After all, when you don’t have arches, you don't have proper support as you are walking and standing all day. Dr. Shah and Dr. Kha may prescribe custom orthotics, which are inserts that go into your shoes. These are not the same inserts you buy over the counter, as they custom-fit around the shape of your foot to help correct foot deformities or provide comfort from painful conditions like flat feet.

When you have flat feet in Farmville and Richmond, VA, you may be dealing with pain or a noticeable change in your walking gait. Thanks to the expertise of Dr. Shah and Dr. Kha at New Age Foot & Ankle Surgery, you may finally find comfort while living with this foot condition. Call the Richmond, VA, office by calling (804) 934-9340, or in Farmville, VA, by calling (434) 391-3668 today to schedule a visit.