Posted on August 16, 2021 at 9:56 pm

Lifestyle

Flat Feet: Myths vs. Reality

Struggling with a terrible case of flat feet for years? You probably may have heard many things regarding flat feet that may sound weird or untrue. For instance, some think that flat feet cause chronic back pain and other foot issues. But that’s not true. In fact, back pain arises due to wrong footwear choices, age factors, or injuries. Similarly, many myths surround this condition. And this article will debunk some of them for you. So keep reading!

Photo by Abbie Bernet on Unsplash
Photo by Abbie Bernet on Unsplash

Myths Related to Flat Feet

Myth: Flat feet Causes Zero Problems 

Reality: As per the National Foot Health Assessment data, more than 8% of US Adults aging 21+ have flat feet, and 4% have fallen arches. So it’s definitely more common than you think. Even with flat feet, you can walk normally. Your feet will touch the ground with a low arch or noarch. 

There are certain cases when people with flat feet feel pain. People even complain of having difficulty walking on uneven ground, running, or maintaining balance. So it’s important to seek timely treatment. That being said, it doesn’t create any severe health issues or brings problems for those around you. So if someone has ever told you that your flat feet are bad or bring misfortune, they are either misinformed or superstitious. 

Myth: Flat Feet Occur Because of Wrong Footwear Choice

Reality: If this was the case, certain footwear would contain a warning label, as cigarettes do. No company designs footwear that can deform your feet structure. So it’s wrong to blame your footwear for causing a deformed arch shape.

Women who wear high heels are suggested not to do so. This is because it can worsen your flat feet pain. It can lead to calluses, corns, hammertoes, and osteoarthritis attacks too. But no, wearing high heels is not the root cause of flat feet. And neither is any other kind of footwear. 

Myth: You Can’t Participate in Sports With Flat Feet

Reality: A large number of people believe that participating in sports can aggravate flat feet. But that is a big myth. Alan Webb, an American mile runner, had flat feet, but he is still the fastest American to hold a one-mile run record.

A flat foot can absorb more shock in comparison to high arched feet. This makes it suitable for certain kinds of sports. But seeking the right therapy or treatment for it is still necessary to have complete athletic flexibility. If you’re looking to correct your flat foot deformity, podiatrists at Essex Union Podiatry in NJ are adept at many surgical and non-surgical treatment options for flat feet. They will reduce your discomfort in no time. 

Myth: Only Surgery Can Help People With Flat Feet

Reality: Flat foot reconstruction surgery can fix flat feet problems for people. And honestly, it is a more long-term or permanent option. But surgery isn’t the only way to manage flat feet. There are other therapeutic, non-invasive options too. 

You can manage the strains in the lower part of the leg with some stretching exercises. They will reduce the pain or problems you are facing due to straining. Another solution is to buy compression socks for your legs. They will provide support to your arch. Some over-the-counter orthotics and medications are used for treatment too. 

Conclusion

Now that you know what myths surround flat feet and what their realities are, you can make a more informed decision about getting your flat foot treated. Visiting a podiatrist and asking them to analyze your condition is the best step forward. It’s better to steer clear of any suspicious remedies that spring out of these myths. So always listen to your podiatrist when it comes to your flat feet, and you’ll be out of discomfort. 

Please follow and like us: