Our Services / Flat Foot

What is flat foot?

If you have a flat foot, your soles make direct contact with the ground whenever you stand up or take a step. 

All people are born with flat feet, but you typically develop arches by the time you’re two or three. Sometimes, however, the arches don’t develop. This can affect your gait and posture, increasing your risk of foot pain, ankle pain, and other musculoskeletal problems.

What are the symptoms of flat foot?

Symptoms of flat foot include:

• Leg cramps
• Muscle pain
• Ankle pain
• Heel pain
• Changes in your gait or posture

Many people with flat feet also experience toe drift, a condition that causes the toes to spread out and away from each other.

Who is at risk of experiencing flat foot?

Several factors may increase your risk of flat foot, including:

• Being obese
• Suffering a foot or ankle injury
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Diabetes

You’re also more likely to experience flat foot if you’re middle-aged. Over the years, your arches experience wear and tear, affecting their appearance and strength.

How is flat foot diagnosed?

At Chevy Chase Foot & Ankle, Dr. Sadoughi diagnoses flat foot during an in-office visit.

First, he reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms. Then, Dr. Sadoughi examines your feet. During the exam, he has you stand up, sit down, and walk around the room. Dr. Sadoughi watches your feet during these activities to assess your gait and posture. He also looks at the soles of your shoes to see the wear pattern.

If physical observation doesn’t provide enough insight, Dr. Sadoughi might also order diagnostic imaging, like X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI. These procedures can identify underlying problems, like arthritis, fractures, or damage to a tendon.

How is flat foot treated?

Treatment of flat foot depends on several factors, including your age and the symptoms you’re experiencing. Whenever possible, Dr. Sadoughi recommends conservative treatments like:

• Custom orthotics
• Stretching exercises
• Physical therapy
• Wearing shoes that provide adequate arch support

If you experience flat foot due to a sports injury, like a ruptured tendon, Dr. Sadoughi might recommend surgery to repair the soft tissue.

Don’t let flat foot keep you from living your best life; make an appointment at Chevy Chase Foot & Ankle by calling the office or booking online today.