While having little or no arch in the foot might not seem serious on its own, it’s actually a recognized medical condition that can lead to a surprising number of issues. This foot trait can be caused by a wide variety of factors, including birth abnormalities, torn tendons, and rheumatoid arthritis. If you believe you have flat feet, see a podiatrist as soon as possible to prevent the following three complications.

3 Problems People With Fallen Arches Experience

1. Pain in the Foot or Lower Leg

Have you noticed a persistent discomfort in your feet or lower legs recently? This might be due to an inflamed tendon, and it will only worsen over time without treatment. A podiatrist will accurately diagnose the issue and recommend the appropriate course of action to ensure the tendon doesn’t stretch out or tear.

2. Hip or Back Pain

Sometimes, discomfort in the pelvic region or back isn’t related to the spinal cord, but to fallen arches. Your feet affect the alignment of the entire body. If they’re flat, it puts additional pressure on your other joints. A podiatrist might recommend orthotics to provide the appropriate amount of support and reduce the symptoms.

3. Difficulty Moving

In severe cases, people with fallen arches might have difficulty performing movements that should be normal, like standing on their toes. This is because their feet don’t have the amount of support they usually would and also could indicate tendon damage. A podiatrist may recommend physical therapy or surgery in this case to correct the issue.

If you have flat feet, see a podiatrist to prevent related issues from worsening. Residents in Florissant and St. Peters, MO, can turn to the team at St. Peters Foot & Ankle: Samuel T. Wood-DPM. They serve patients within a 35-mile radius of these two locations and have more than two decades of experience treating a range of foot and ankle issues. To learn more about their offerings, call (636) 720-0190 or go online today.