Flat Feet Treatment in Pembroke Pines & Plantation
Flat feet is a condition in which the arches on the inside of your feet are flattened, allowing the entire sole to touch the floor when you stand. Many people with flat feet have no symptoms, but others experience heel, arch, and ankle pain that worsens with activity. At Daniel Bell, DPM - Foot & Ankle Institute, Daniel Bell, DPM evaluates your arches and recommends treatment to relieve pain and support healthy foot function.
Types and Causes of Flat Feet
- Flexible flat feet: The arch appears when sitting or standing on tiptoe but disappears when standing. This is common and often painless.
- Childhood flat feet: Arches may not fully develop during childhood. Many children outgrow it, while others carry it into adulthood.
- Adult-acquired flat foot: Arches collapse later in life due to injury, aging, or weakening of the posterior tibial tendon, which supports the arch.
- Rigid flat feet: The arch is absent whether sitting or standing, sometimes due to bone abnormalities or arthritis.
Other risk factors include obesity, diabetes, pregnancy, and previous foot or ankle injuries.
Symptoms of Flat Feet
While many people never have symptoms, some experience:
- Pain in the heel or arch, especially after activity
- Swelling and pain along the inside of the ankle
- Feet that tire easily
- Difficulty standing on tiptoe
- Knee, hip, or lower back pain
Physical activity can irritate and inflame the area along the inside of the ankle when the tendon supporting the arch is overstretched and weakening. Flat feet are also linked to plantar fasciitis, bunions, Achilles tendonitis, and ankle pain.
Flat Feet Treatment Options
Most symptomatic flat feet improve with conservative care:
- Custom orthotics to support the arch and control excess motion
- Supportive, stable footwear
- Stretching the calf and Achilles tendon
- Strengthening exercises for the foot and ankle
- Bracing for adult-acquired flat foot
- Anti-inflammatory medication for flare-ups
- Shockwave therapy for related heel and tendon pain
When a collapsed arch progresses or pain persists despite treatment, surgical correction can rebuild the arch. Learn more about foot and ankle surgery.
Flat Feet in Children and Athletes
Children with painful flat feet should be evaluated, as early support can reduce discomfort during sports. Athletes benefit from our sports medicine approach to prevent overuse injuries. View all conditions we treat.
Flat Feet FAQs
Are flat feet a problem?
Many people with flat feet have no symptoms and need no treatment. Treatment is recommended when flat feet cause pain or affect function.
Can flat feet cause back pain?
Yes. Flat feet can change the alignment of the legs and contribute to knee, hip, and lower back pain.
Do orthotics help flat feet?
Custom orthotics support the arch, control excess motion, and are one of the most effective treatments for painful flat feet.
Can adults develop flat feet?
Yes. Adult-acquired flat foot often results from weakening of the posterior tibial tendon, injury, arthritis, or aging.
Will my child outgrow flat feet?
Many children develop arches as they grow. Children with pain or stiffness should be evaluated by a podiatrist.
What shoes are best for flat feet?
Look for shoes with firm heel counters, good arch support, and stability features. Orthotics can add customized support.
When is surgery needed for flat feet?
Surgery may be considered for a progressive or rigid flat foot that remains painful despite orthotics, bracing, and therapy.
Support Your Arches, Relieve Your Pain
Find out which treatment is right for your flat feet. Call (954) 942-5005 - Pembroke Pines Office or (954) 942-5005 - Plantation Office or request an appointment online with Dr. Bell.