Flat Foot Treatment in Lakewood, CA
High-Quality Podiatry Care for Foot Pain Relief
Many people have flat feet or low arches. While this is a common foot type, over time the lack of arch support can lead to serious foot conditions and foot and ankle pain. To treat and prevent these problems, we offer expert flat foot treatment in Lakewood, CA, so that we can get you back to living a pain-free life!
Types of Flat Feet
There are two types of flat feet: congenital and acquired. If your feet are flat, it could be because your arches never formed properly. This is what’s referred to as congenital flat feet, and for most people with this condition, there are few or no symptoms involved. For those who have fallen arches or acquired flat feet, there may be more symptoms.
Causes & Symptoms
If you have flat feet, your arch remains close to the ground because your tendons are looser than they are in someone without flat feet. People with flat feet typically experience the following symptoms:
- Tired or achy feet after you stand or play sports
- Foot pain
- Pain in your hips
- Pain in your lower legs
- Pain in your arches
- Pain in your ankles
Even if your flat feet aren’t currently bothering you, they can be contributing to the formation of other painful foot conditions such as:
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
- Heel Spurs
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Neuromas
- Arthritis
- Tendonitis
Treatment Options
If you experience foot pain on a regular basis or have any of the listed symptoms consistently, then it may be time to see a foot doctor. Some common treatments for flat feet include:
- Foot and ankle stretches
- Icing painful areas
- An anti-inflammatory medicine
- Custom orthotics
- Supportive bracing or taping
- In severe cases, surgery may be required
If caught early enough, we can eliminate or at least decrease the chance of the formation of deformities. Our podiatrist will carefully discuss your case and treatment options when you visit us for an evaluation.
Contact Our Team for Flat Foot Treatment in Lakewood, CA
How long does recovery take?
Expect a few weeks off your foot, then some time in a walking boot. Full recovery usually takes a few months, depending on the extent of the reconstruction and how your ankle responds. Physical therapy helps you get your strength back.
When can I drive again?
It depends on which ankle we treat. If it's your left, you may drive an automatic sooner. If it's your right, wait until you can brake safely and we give you the OK.
What happens if I put off surgery?
A loose ankle tends to keep spraining, causing repeated sprains and further damage inside the joint. Over time, that can lead to arthritis.
How can I get my home ready?
Set up a comfortable place to rest when you can safely reach your phone, medications, water, and other essentials. If possible, sleep on the main floor to avoid stairs while you are using crutches or a walker. Move rugs and cords out of the way to avoid tripping hazards. Consider a shower chair for safer bathing, and a friend to help with errands.