When it comes to your feet, you probably want to do everything in your power to keep them healthy and in good shape. This is especially true for those with collapsed arches or flat feet, a condition where one or both feet have no arch when standing. While most patients with collapsed arches don’t experience significant health problems, it’s essential to pay close attention to this condition, especially if you are active or on your feet a lot. At Free Body Physical Therapy, our team understands that foot pain needs to be treated with the utmost priority. Continue reading to discover how physical therapy can help treat a collapsed arch!
What is a Collapsed Arch?
The arch is the area between the ball and heel of your foot that helps facilitate movement, absorb shock, and provide additional balance and stability. The arches are supported by a complex network of ligaments, muscles, and tendons. As the name suggests, a collapsed arch means that your arch has fallen and your foot is flat. Years of walking, running, or prolonged standing can weaken the tendons in your foot and cause the arch to collapse. While this condition may sound painful, many individuals with collapsed arches may not even realize they have them. However, flat feet can cause some of the following symptoms:
- Pain along the bottom of the foot.
- Ankle pain.
- Pain that worsens with activity.
- Trouble finding shoes that fit well.
- Calluses and blisters from shoes.
Collapsed arches can also impact your gait, which can contribute to knee, hip, and lower back pain as you try to compensate during movement. Some factors contributing to the development of collapsed arches can include diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, or congenital flat feet. At Free Body Physical Therapy, we will perform a complex assessment to determine if your foot pain is related to a collapsed arch and outline the appropriate treatment plan to relieve some of your uncomfortable symptoms.
Treating a Collapsed Arch
Collapsed arches are caused by various factors, and while most people experience no discomfort, this condition can result in painful body issues. Our physical therapist at Free Body Physical Therapy can determine the best treatment methods to relieve pain and improve your body mechanics. If you have collapsed arches, your physical therapist will start by assessing your foot structure and range of motion. From there, they will develop a customized treatment plan to address your specific needs. Here are some of the ways you can treat collapsed arches with physical therapy:
- Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Exercises that stretch and strengthen the muscles in your feet and lower legs can help improve the alignment of your feet and reduce pain.
- Manual Therapy: Manipulating the soft tissues in your feet can help improve range of motion and reduce pain.
- Orthotics: Custom-made shoe inserts can help to support the arches of your feet and improve your body mechanics.
- Bracing: Wearing a supportive brace can help to stabilize the bones in your feet and reduce pain.
At Free Body Physical Therapy, we understand that the feet are the foundation of your entire body. With our physical therapist’s help, you’ll be well-equipped to keep your feet healthy and strong and alleviate knee, back, and ankle pain. Our customized treatment programs are tailored to your unique needs and focus on relieving symptoms and facilitating your return to a pain-free, active lifestyle.
Contact Us
Physical therapy is an effective treatment for collapsed arches and can help you find relief from pain. If you are experiencing foot pain from flat feet, Free Body Physical Therapy is here to help! Our team is ready to start building a customized treatment for you, so be sure to contact us today and get back on track towards pain-free living!