Understanding the Pain of Flat Feet

When you have flat feet, everyday activities like walking can become uncomfortable or even painful. This condition, also known as pes planus, happens when the arches of your feet collapse or never fully form, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. If you’re dealing with pain from flat feet, the team at Granite Orthopaedics in Prescott, AZ, offers expert care through our foot and ankle services, helping you regain comfort and mobility.

Choosing Granite Orthopaedics means choosing providers who understand the complexity of foot conditions and offer a patient-centered approach to care. You’ll benefit from tailored treatment plans designed around your specific needs and lifestyle.

Why Flat Feet Hurt When You Walk

Flat feet disrupt the normal alignment of your lower body. When your arches collapse, the way your feet distribute weight shifts, causing strain on muscles, tendons, and joints. This can lead to pain not just in your feet, but also in your ankles, knees, hips, and lower back.

Walking with flat feet can increase fatigue in your legs and feet because your body must work harder to maintain balance and absorb shock. Over time, this abnormal stress can contribute to inflammation and the development of conditions such as plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendinitis.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

If you have flat feet, you may notice pain or discomfort in the following areas:

• The inner side of your feet

• Your heels or arches

• Ankles that roll inward

• Swelling along the inside of the ankle

• Pain that worsens with physical activity

These symptoms often worsen with extended walking or standing and can limit your ability to stay active or perform daily tasks comfortably.

Managing Pain and Finding Relief

Fortunately, there are effective treatment options available. Conservative approaches such as supportive footwear, orthotic inserts, and physical therapy can help realign your feet and reduce strain. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct structural issues and relieve persistent pain.

By addressing flat feet early, you can prevent long-term complications and improve your quality of life. A personalized evaluation can determine the best course of action based on your specific needs.

Take the First Step Toward Relief

If walking has become painful and you suspect flat feet may be the cause, it’s time to get expert help. Contact Granite Orthopaedics in Prescott, AZ, at 928-777-9950 to schedule an appointment and learn how specialized foot and ankle care can help you move more comfortably.