Flat feet and Plantar Fasciitis are common foot conditions that can cause significant ankle and foot pain while impairing daily activities. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments is crucial for managing this condition effectively. At Family Podiatry of Maryland, we are dedicated to educating our clients on the different aspects of their conditions so they can recover quickly.
What are Flat Feet?
Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when the arches of the foot collapse, leaving the entire sole of the foot touching the ground during walking or standing activities. This condition can be present since birth or develop over time due to various factors, including injury, obesity, aging, or prolonged stress on the feet.
Causes of Flat Feet:
- Genetics: Some people inherit flat feet from their parents.
- Injury: Damage to the foot or ankle can cause flat feet.
- Aging: As people grow older, the posterior tibial tendon, which supports the arch of your foot, can weaken.
- Medical Conditions: Rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes can contribute to flat feet.
Symptoms of Flat Feet:
- Heel pain
- Ankle pain
- Swelling along the inside of the ankle
- Difficulty standing on tiptoes
- Foot fatigue after prolonged standing or walking
- Overpronation (foot rolls inward excessively while walking)
Understanding Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a form of repetitive stress injury that affects the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. This condition results from small tears in the plantar fascia ligament, leading to inflammation and pain.
Causes of Plantar Fasciitis:
- Overuse: Repeated stress from activities like running or walking long distances.
- Foot Biomechanics: Abnormal walking patterns, flat feet, or high arches can strain the plantar fascia.
- Obesity: Excess body weight increases pressure on the plantar fascia.
- Occupational Hazards: Jobs that require prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis:
- Sharp pain in the heel, especially after getting out of bed in the morning or after long periods of rest.
- Pain that worsens after exercise or activity.
- Tenderness and stiffness in the bottom of the foot.
- Difficulty walking or standing for extended periods.
What’s the Link between Flat Feet and Plantar Fasciitis?
Flat Feet can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis due to the strain they place on the plantar fascia. When the arches collapse, the plantar fascia stretches abnormally, increasing the risk of small tears and subsequent inflammation. This is why it is considered a repetitive stress injury.
How can we help?
To effectively treat plantar fasciitis, it is important to determine whether the condition is primary or secondary. Primary plantar fasciitis accounts for at least 90% of all cases. Some treatment options include:
- Orthotic Devices: Custom-made orthotic inserts can support the arches and correct abnormal foot biomechanics, reducing strain on the plantar fascia.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen the foot muscles, improve flexibility, and alleviate pain.
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Recommendations on weight management, proper footwear, and activity modifications to reduce stress on the feet.
Fortunately for those suffering from heel pain and ankle pain, the human body has an incredible ability to heal itself. For this healing to occur with plantar fasciitis, the daily stress and damage to the foot must be minimized. Plantar fasciitis continues when the damage caused during the day exceeds the body’s ability to repair itself.
If you think you might be developing flat feet or plantar fasciitis, schedule a consultation today! The sooner you get a diagnosis, the sooner you can find pain relief. Nonsurgical treatments include corticosteroid injections, custom orthotic inserts, and stretching. Physical therapy can also help ensure proper stretching of the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia ligament. Surgery Is typically considered only for severe and persistent cases.
For more information, we are conveniently located in Baltimore, Reisterstown, and Towson. We are also just a short drive from Owings Mills, so say goodbye to long commutes and inconvenient appointments. At Family Podiatry of Maryland, quality care is right in your backyard. Don’t let foot pain or discomfort hold you back any longer. Whether you’re dealing with flat feet or plantar fasciitis, now is the time to prioritize your foot health.