Flat feet typically refers to fallen arches of feet and is a condition where the arches of the feet are low or absent, causing the entire sole of the foot to come into contact with the ground. Normally, when you stand or walk, the arches of your feet provide support and help distribute your body weight evenly across your feet. However, in people with flat feet, the arches collapse and the feet may appear to be flat on the ground.
Flat feet can be inherited or acquired. Some people are born with flat feet, while others may develop the condition due to factors such as injury, wear and tear, or certain medical conditions such as arthritis or diabetes. Flat feet may also be associated with over pronation, which is when the foot rolls inward excessively when walking or running.
Physiotherapy can be an effective treatment for flat feet
Physiotherapy can help to address the underlying causes of flat feet, such as muscle weakness or imbalance, tightness, and poor posture. By addressing these issues, physiotherapy can help to improve the alignment of the feet, reduce pain and discomfort, and prevent further damage to the feet.
A physiotherapist can develop a customized treatment plan for each individual, which may include exercises to strengthen and stretch the muscles in the feet, legs, and hips, as well as the use of custom orthotics to provide additional support and cushioning for the feet. In many cases, flat feet can cause an inflammation of the tissues under the feet which is called plantar fasciitis. A physiotherapist can treat Plantar fasciitis and provide education on proper footwear, walking and running techniques, and lifestyle modifications to promote foot health
Chiropodists can help to identify and provide targeted interventions
Chiropody, which is also known as podiatry, can be an effective intervention for managing flat feet and treating pain associated with flat feet or plantar fasciatis. Podiatrists, also known in Canada as Chiropodists, are healthcare professionals who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of conditions related to the feet and lower limbs, including flat feet.
Chiropody can be an effective treatment for flat feet because podiatrists are trained to identify the underlying causes of flat feet, such as muscle weakness or imbalance, tightness, and poor posture. They can then develop a customized treatment plan that addresses these issues and helps to improve foot alignment and function.
Some common treatments that podiatrists may use to treat flat feet include:
- Custom orthotics: Chiropodists can prescribe custom-made orthotics, which are specialized shoe inserts that can help to provide additional support and cushioning to the feet. These orthotics can be designed specifically to address the individual’s flat feet and may help to improve foot alignment and reduce pain and discomfort.
- Footwear modifications: Podiatrists may recommend changes to an individual’s footwear, such as wearing shoes with a supportive arch, to help improve foot alignment and reduce pain and discomfort.
- Exercise therapy: Podiatrists can prescribe exercises that can help to strengthen the muscles in the feet, legs, and hips, which can help to improve foot alignment and function.
- Manual therapy: Podiatrists may use manual therapy techniques, such as massage or joint mobilization, to help improve foot function and reduce pain and discomfort.
Patients with flat feet may benefit from booking appointments with a physiotherapist and a chiropodist at Physiomobility. Flat feet can cause pain, inflammation, discomfort, and affect knees and hip joints as well as changing posture and balance. A physiotherapist can help patients improve their foot and ankle strength and mobility through manual therapy, exercises, stretches, and other techniques.
Together, physiotherapists and chiropodists can create a personalized treatment plan to address the patient’s specific needs and help them achieve optimal foot health. Other professionals who may be able to help are massage therapists and chiropractors. Booking appointments with a physiotherapist and a chiropodist at Physiomobility can be a proactive step towards addressing flat feet and improving overall physical wellbeing. You may book a free consultation by contacting 416-444-4800.
