Orthotics For Fallen Arches
Finding The Right Orthotics For Fallen Arches
Fallen arches, more commonly known as flat feet, occur when individuals have no arch or an extremely low arch within their feet. Typically, there is a gap under your foot when you are standing cause by the arch of your foot raising. If you have fallen arches, this does not occur. This condition can cause pain or discomfort for the sufferer and has been known to be a cause of aches and pains elsewhere in the body. However, some people can go their entire lives without suffering any adverse effects from their fallen arches. However, if you’re suffering with pain or discomfort, it’s important that you find the best orthotics for fallen arches and that’s where we can help.
What Are Fallen Arches?
Quite simply, fallen arches are when an individual has no, or a very low, arch. This results in their feet being flat to the ground. The foot arches put a natural spring in your step and help to evenly distribute your weight when you walk or stand. Your arches should be sturdy and flexible to enable your feet to easily adapt to the stresses caused by a wide variety of surfaces. Many people who suffer from this condition do not report any adverse affects, however if you are experiencing pain or discomfort, a doctor would advise you to invest in good quality orthotics for fallen arches. These will help relieve the pressure and strain on your foot, easing the pain and discomfort at the same time.
Common Symptoms
There are many symptoms that those with fallen arches experience. The most common, as we’ve mentioned, is pain or discomfort within the foot. However, this is also a symptom for a wide range of other foot problems. You may also experience pain in the hip or knee joints as a direct symptom of fallen arches. This is common if your ankles turn inwards when standing or walking, putting pressure on multiple joints. As well as these, many people who suffer with fallen arches also report feeling pain in the following areas:
- calf
- lower back
- lower legs
You may also experience some swelling localised in these areas and your feet will also likely feel stiffer than usual as a result of your fallen arches. You may also find that your shoes have a tendency to wear down quicker on one side. This is caused by uneven weight distribution, which is common in everyone with flat feet. If you find that happening to your shoes, it may be worth investing in custom built orthotic shoes.
Causes
There are many potential causes for fallen arches. These include:
- tarsal coalition
- genetics
- obesity
- age
- weak arches
- diabetes
- arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
- tendonitis
- damage to the posterior tibial tendon
- some nervous system or muscle diseases including cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy
- during pregnancy.
Diagnosing Fallen Arches
Many cases go unnoticed due to the lack of pain or discomfort. After all, if you’re not experiencing any issues, you’re not likely to need to visit a dr! However, if you are experiencing any symptoms of fallen arches, you should seek medical advice when:
- you are experiencing pain in the feet, in your ankles or in your lower leg
- you feel you have recently developed flat feet (as a result of age, injury, pregnancy or weight gain)
- symptoms persist over an extended period of time
How To Relieve The Pain
There are a range of exercises you can do to relieve the pain of fallen arches. These exercises have been proven to help you manage the pain and can be very effective. You can also invest in simple, affordable arch or foot supports which will slide into your footwear and give you the support and relief you’re looking for. Our range of affordable orthotic supports have been created by our experienced footwear specialists and have been proven to help relieve the pain you’re experiencing. Our range of orthotics start from just £19.95 and come in a range of colours and we ship globally, so don’t delay, order yours today!
