Podiatrists in Blackburn & Essendon

Flat Feet Melbourne

At Melbourne Podiatry Clinic, our experienced team offer a range of treatment options for flat feet. Let us help you find relief and get back to enjoying the activities you love!

Flat Feet: A Comprehensive Podiatry Guide

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, is a common condition where the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to come into contact with the ground. This results in a flattened appearance of the foot when standing. Flat feet can lead to various symptoms such as pain, discomfort, and fatigue in the feet, particularly after standing or walking for extended periods. It can also contribute to other foot problems and affect overall mobility. However, a significant majority of the population have a form of flat feet so treatment is not always required if there are no symptoms.

Symptoms

Flat feet can present with various symptoms, including:

Pain or discomfort in the feet, especially around the arches and heels

Tired or achy feet, particularly after standing or walking for extended periods

Swelling along the inside of the ankle

Difficulty finding comfortable footwear that provides adequate support

How We Diagnose It

At Melbourne Podiatry Clinic, we diagnose flat feet through:

Physical examination

Assessing the shape of the feet, arch height, and gait pattern.

Gait analysis

Observing how you walk to identify any abnormalities or imbalances.

X-rays or other imaging tests

To evaluate the structure of the foot and rule out other conditions.

How We Treat It

Our podiatrists offer a range of treatment options for flat feet, including:

Orthotic devices

Custom-made orthotics to support the arches and redistribute pressure across the feet.

Footwear modifications

Recommend shoes with adequate arch support and cushioning.

Stretching and strengthening exercises

To improve foot and ankle muscle strength and flexibility.

Strengthening program

Targeted exercises to correct biomechanical issues and improve gait.

Bracing or taping

To provide additional support and stability to the feet.

Surgical interventions

Some rare cases require surgery to reconstruct the foot.

What Can You Do to Prevent It

To prevent flat feet or alleviate symptoms, you can:

Maintain a healthy weight

Excess weight can exacerbate flat feet and increase discomfort.

Wear supportive footwear

Choose shoes with good arch support and cushioning.

Avoid prolonged standing or walking

Take regular breaks to rest your feet if you're on your feet for long periods.

Perform foot exercises

Stretch and strengthen the muscles of the feet and ankles regularly.

Why Choose Our Clinic

Expertise

Our podiatrists have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating flat feet.

Customised treatment plans

We develop individualised treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle.

Comprehensive approach

We address not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of flat feet to provide long-term relief.

Latest technology

We use advanced diagnostic tools and treatment techniques including 3D scanned orthotics to ensure the best outcomes for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can flat feet cause other foot problems?

Yes, flat feet can lead to other foot issues such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and bunions due to altered biomechanics.

Can flat feet be corrected without surgery?

Yes, many cases of flat feet can be effectively managed with conservative treatments such as orthotics, exercises, and footwear modifications.

Will wearing supportive shoes help with flat feet?

Yes, wearing shoes with good arch support and cushioning can help alleviate discomfort and provide support to flat feet.

At what age should flat feet be treated?

Flat feet can be treated at any age, but early intervention is recommended to prevent potential complications and improve overall foot health.

Melbourne Podiatry Clinic

Book a Consultation

Don’t let flat feet limit your mobility or cause discomfort. Contact Melbourne Podiatry Clinic today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced podiatrists. Let us help you find relief and get back to enjoying the activities you love!