Arch Support Orthotics Can Help To Prevent Flat Feet

By Sharron Cantu


Swollen and painful feet are problems encountered by podiatrists every day. In the vast majority of the cases faced by these professionals the cause can be traced back to the shoes the patients wear. They either do not fit well or the patient participates in sporting activities without bothering to wear the correct shoes. Many patients suffer from common problems such as flat feet. IN many cases the problem can be remedied with arch support orthotics.

Fallen insteps can cause a number of symptoms. Some sufferers experience constant pain in the feet and ankles. The also commonly suffer from swollen ankles and feet. Most people with this condition cannot stand uptight for long and they find it extremely difficult to stand on their toes. Their shoes wear unevenly and much quicker than those of other people. Lower back pain is also a common complaint.

Flat feet cannot be cured. However, the use of insoles can help sufferers. These devices are specially designed to support the arches of the feet. This provides relief of the symptoms and allows sufferers to function normally. They are available freely and it is not necessary to get a prescription. People with malformed feet may need specially made devices but most people benefit from ready made products.

A small number of podiatrists have attempted to cure flat feet by surgically inserting an artificial support device in the ankle. However, the vast majority of podiatrists shun this idea. They describe this operation as irresponsible and very risky. The chances of something going wrong are unacceptably high and the patient will experience constant lifelong pain. The risk is simply not worth it.

There are other things that can help sufferers to relieve the symptoms common to flat feet. Podiatrists advise patients to walk barefoot as often as possible. Efforts should also be made to run on the toes. It is also beneficial to stretch the toes as wide as possible a few times every day. These exercises will strengthen the ligaments and improve the flexibility of the feet.

All babies have flat feet. The arches only develop at a later stage but in some cases they simply never develop at all. There are other causes for flat feet that develop at a later stage. Obese people are very likely to suffer from flat feet. Those with arthritis are also at risk. The tendons in the ankles often weaken with age and this may lead to flat feet in the elderly.

There is much that can be done to prevent the arches from falling later in life. Wearing the correct type of shoe is one of the most important ways in which to prevent flat feet. Active people participating in sport should wear the type of footwear that is designed for that specific sport and women should avoid high heels if possible.

Insoles can do much to help people suffering from flat feet to avoid constant pain and discomfort. It is important to buy only quality products from reputable dealers. Inferior products can actually more harm than good, causing blisters and placing pressure upon the foot. Any podiatrist can give advice on which products are best.




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