To Perfect Body

Podiatrists deal with patients that have sore and swollen feet and ankles every day. In most cases the cause of the discomfort is that the patient is wearing the wrong type of shoe or shoes that do not fit properly. However, patients with flat feet also experience discomfort, sometimes constantly. In most cases the use of special insoles that can be inserted in standard shoes can provide almost immediate relief. Arch support orthotics not only benefits people with flat feet, however.

Low or non existent insteps lead to a variety of foot problems. Many sufferers cannot stand on tip toes and they experience intense pain if they have to stand for long periods of time. Their feet and ankles tend to swell up in hot weather and many sufferers also experience constant lower back pain. Their shoes wear unevenly and they struggle to find footwear that is wide enough.

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 are born with flat feet. In some people the arches simply fail to develop and they have to live with flat feet. In other cases people develop flat feet later on in life. The tendons along the ankles often weaken with age. Injuries to and inflammation in the tendons can also lead to fallen insteps. Obese people and those suffering from arthritis are particularly prone to developing flat feet.

There are steps that can be taken to prevent the arches from falling. It is imperative to wear the correct shoes at all times. Shoes should always provide proper support and there should be room for the toes to move. Women, especially, should try not to wear high heels for long periods. Sportspeople should also make sure that their footwear is designed to distribute their weight evenly.

Chronic foot pain can make it difficult for people to move around freely. Insoles can do much to help people with flat feet to relieve pain and discomfort. Care should be taken, however, to buy from reputable manufacturers only. If in doubt, advice from a podiatrist should be sought.