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.
Babies are all born without developed arches. It is only later in infancy that they develop. In some cases, however, the arches simply never develop and the individual concerned will just have to accept the fact that they will have to live with flat feet. The development of arches can be encouraged in young children but then the parents need to recognize the problem at a very early age.
Flat feet or fallen arches can occur later in life too. Obese people are especially prone to this condition because the feet simply cannot cope with the weight placed upon them. Older people often develop fallen arches because the tendons and muscles in their feet weaken over time. Those suffering from diabetes and hypertension are particularly in danger of developing flat feet.
There is no cure for flat feet. The best thing people with this condition can do is to invest in high quality sole inserts. These inserts fit snugly into the shoe and provide support for the arches. In most cases the insoles can be used in different pairs of shoes. They not only provide comfort but they also help protect the feet against undue stress.
There are also some exercises that can do much to strengthen the muscles and tendons in the feet. Podiatrists advise their patients to walk barefoot as often as possible, preferably in sand. It also helps to perform regular stretching exercises. The feet should be rotated from left to right and back again and the toes should be spread as far apart as is possible.
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.
When buying special insoles it is worth it to insist upon quality products. Many products do not conform to the specifications designed by qualified podiatrists. These products can actually cause more harm than good. Rather choose a product that has been designed by foot experts and that enjoy a good reputation. When in doubt, ask advice from a qualified professional or visit a reputable shoe merchant.
A simple device such as an insole can provide people with fallen arches much comfort. It is definitely worthwhile considering. While the condition cannot be cured, it is certainly manageable and much can be done to relieve the symptoms, such as back ache and feet fatigue.
Babies are all born without developed arches. It is only later in infancy that they develop. In some cases, however, the arches simply never develop and the individual concerned will just have to accept the fact that they will have to live with flat feet. The development of arches can be encouraged in young children but then the parents need to recognize the problem at a very early age.
Flat feet or fallen arches can occur later in life too. Obese people are especially prone to this condition because the feet simply cannot cope with the weight placed upon them. Older people often develop fallen arches because the tendons and muscles in their feet weaken over time. Those suffering from diabetes and hypertension are particularly in danger of developing flat feet.
There is no cure for flat feet. The best thing people with this condition can do is to invest in high quality sole inserts. These inserts fit snugly into the shoe and provide support for the arches. In most cases the insoles can be used in different pairs of shoes. They not only provide comfort but they also help protect the feet against undue stress.
There are also some exercises that can do much to strengthen the muscles and tendons in the feet. Podiatrists advise their patients to walk barefoot as often as possible, preferably in sand. It also helps to perform regular stretching exercises. The feet should be rotated from left to right and back again and the toes should be spread as far apart as is possible.
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.
When buying special insoles it is worth it to insist upon quality products. Many products do not conform to the specifications designed by qualified podiatrists. These products can actually cause more harm than good. Rather choose a product that has been designed by foot experts and that enjoy a good reputation. When in doubt, ask advice from a qualified professional or visit a reputable shoe merchant.
A simple device such as an insole can provide people with fallen arches much comfort. It is definitely worthwhile considering. While the condition cannot be cured, it is certainly manageable and much can be done to relieve the symptoms, such as back ache and feet fatigue.
