One of the most common complaints faced by podiatrists is flat feet. Luckily the condition itself is not painful, but it can lead to discomfort. Arches perform an important function. They help to dissipate the stress of movement and people without arches are subjected to more stress on their muscles and tendons. By opting for quality arch support orthotics most of the negative effects of flat feet can be overcome.
All babies are born without arches. They develop later in infancy. Some people just never develop arches, however. When parents notice that their infants are not developing arches at the proper time, they can intervene by introducing a regime of foot gymnastics. Most pediatricians can suggest an exercise routine that will encourage development. There are no guarantees, however, and some people will simply have to live with flat feet.
Flat feet is not only a problem experienced by those born with it. It can develop in later life too. People suffering from hypertension and diabetes are prone to the development of this condition, but it is especially obese individuals that are most likely to see their arches fall. Many older people also gradually develop fallen arches because their tendons become weak.
Flat feet cannot be cured. There are some surgeons that have attempted to implant a bone in the ankle in order to lift the arch but most specialists say that this operation is simply too dangerous and too risky. Using an insole is far simpler, cheaper and in almost all cases, far more effective. These insoles are both comfortable and affordable. Best of all, they are not invasive and they do not require a prescription.
There is much that sufferers can do to relieve the symptoms of fallen arches. One of the best things to do is to walk barefoot whenever possible. It is also good to try and stand on tippy toes for as long as possible. Sufferers are further advised to perform stretching exercises. This includes spreading the toes as far apart as possible and rotating the feet from side to side.
One of the most important preventive measures is to wear shoes that fit well and that provide support to the arches. This is especially true for sports people. High heels should be avoided as far as possible. Experts advise that shoes should never be bought when tired or on hot days. It is even advisable to wear inserts even when not suffering from fallen arches.
As with anything else that has to do with your health, never compromise on quality. Cheap insoles from dodgy manufacturers can do more harm than good. It is best to purchase insoles from reputable dealers that know what they are talking about. In most cases these products can be used with more than one pair of shoes. If in doubt, ask advice from a podiatrist or even a general practitioner.
It is most certainly worthwhile to look after the feet. Fallen arches are not dangerous but it can lead to constant back ache, difficulty to run, and an inability to stand for long periods. Insoles help, but it is far better to take positive steps to help the body cope more naturally.
All babies are born without arches. They develop later in infancy. Some people just never develop arches, however. When parents notice that their infants are not developing arches at the proper time, they can intervene by introducing a regime of foot gymnastics. Most pediatricians can suggest an exercise routine that will encourage development. There are no guarantees, however, and some people will simply have to live with flat feet.
Flat feet is not only a problem experienced by those born with it. It can develop in later life too. People suffering from hypertension and diabetes are prone to the development of this condition, but it is especially obese individuals that are most likely to see their arches fall. Many older people also gradually develop fallen arches because their tendons become weak.
Flat feet cannot be cured. There are some surgeons that have attempted to implant a bone in the ankle in order to lift the arch but most specialists say that this operation is simply too dangerous and too risky. Using an insole is far simpler, cheaper and in almost all cases, far more effective. These insoles are both comfortable and affordable. Best of all, they are not invasive and they do not require a prescription.
There is much that sufferers can do to relieve the symptoms of fallen arches. One of the best things to do is to walk barefoot whenever possible. It is also good to try and stand on tippy toes for as long as possible. Sufferers are further advised to perform stretching exercises. This includes spreading the toes as far apart as possible and rotating the feet from side to side.
One of the most important preventive measures is to wear shoes that fit well and that provide support to the arches. This is especially true for sports people. High heels should be avoided as far as possible. Experts advise that shoes should never be bought when tired or on hot days. It is even advisable to wear inserts even when not suffering from fallen arches.
As with anything else that has to do with your health, never compromise on quality. Cheap insoles from dodgy manufacturers can do more harm than good. It is best to purchase insoles from reputable dealers that know what they are talking about. In most cases these products can be used with more than one pair of shoes. If in doubt, ask advice from a podiatrist or even a general practitioner.
It is most certainly worthwhile to look after the feet. Fallen arches are not dangerous but it can lead to constant back ache, difficulty to run, and an inability to stand for long periods. Insoles help, but it is far better to take positive steps to help the body cope more naturally.