Don’t let flat feet hold you back from doing more! With proper support, the sky’s the limit!
Flat feet, also known as fallen arches or pes planus foot structure, is a condition where the arch on the inside edge of the foot (medial longitudinal arch) appears to be flat. Flat feet are one of the most common causes of lower limb pain and can actually cause back, hip and even knee pain! Read below to find out why and a couple things that could help address your flatfeet!
Overpronation!
Overpronation, or your foot rolling inwards too much or for too long, during gait is never good. But when it’s due to flat feet, it is one of the most common ways that issues can start to occur with the rest of the body. As the arch flattens more aggressively, the ligaments and muscles of the foot get weaker, leading to more severe overpronation. When the ankle starts to roll inwards, so does the knee and this can even translate up to the hip and lower back! These issues don’t cause pain immediately, but instead it occurs over a long period of time with pressure accumulating in the joints.
Shock absorption!
Your arches are the natural shock absorbers of your body. Think of them like the shocks on your car or bike. They function to help you manage the pressure you put through them. If they are not working properly, your car takes more wear and tear. The same holds true for your feet and body! People with a flatter foot structure tend to be less efficient at managing the pressure being put through the feet, which can create pressure that goes up into the knees, hips and even up to the lower back. Over time this pressure can lead to muscle or joint pain, arthritis, and other conditions.
What can help?
Shoes! A great shoe can truly make a difference when it comes to managing lower limb pain. Having a shoe that fits properly and provides support for your feet will set you on the path to success. A few things to look for in a great shoe are; a stiff heel counter to help control the foot, firm midsole to provide a great base for your foot and a rocker sole to help make your turn over of gait quicker and more effortless. And don’t forget about what you wear inside the house – having a great slipper is important at keeping away foot pain once work hours are over.
Orthotics! Orthotics can be a fantastic solution when it comes to supporting flat feet and helping to prevent injury. Orthotics help with flat feet by controlling for overpronation and increasing how efficient your feet are by managing the pressure you put through them. At BioPed we make everything on site and can get orthotics working with any shoe!
Come see us!
If you’re looking to take care of your feet and get rid of lower limb pain, please book an appointment today! At BioPed Footcare, whether its shoes, footwear, or bracing we are here for you. With our on-site lab there is nothing we can’t do! Meet with one of BioPed’s lower limb clinicians to see how you can keep those flat feet happy!
