Flat Feet Treatment in Houston, TX
Flat feet, also called fallen arches or pes planus, occur when the arch on the inside of the foot flattens and allows the entire sole to touch the ground. At Foot Specialists of Memorial, our podiatrists treat painful flat feet in children and adults with custom orthotics, targeted therapy, and surgical reconstruction when needed.
request an appointmentTypes of Flat Feet
Not all flat feet are the same. Flexible flat feet show an arch when you sit or stand on your toes, but the arch disappears when you stand normally. This type is common in children and often painless. Rigid flat feet have no arch in any position and may be linked to bone or joint problems. Adult-acquired flatfoot develops later in life, most often when the posterior tibial tendon that supports the arch becomes weakened or damaged.
Causes and Risk Factors
Flat feet can be inherited or develop over time. Contributing factors include genetics, tendon injury or dysfunction, arthritis, foot or ankle fractures, obesity, diabetes, pregnancy, and aging. In many adults, the arch slowly collapses as the supporting tendons and ligaments stretch under years of stress.
Symptoms of Flat Feet
Some people with flat feet never have pain. Others experience aching in the arch or heel, swelling along the inside of the ankle, foot fatigue after standing or walking, and pain that travels to the knees, hips, or lower back. Flat feet can also contribute to other conditions, including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, bunions, and hammertoes.
Diagnosing Flat Feet
Our podiatrists evaluate your arch while you sit, stand, and walk, test tendon strength and flexibility, and examine your shoes for wear patterns. Digital X-rays help us measure alignment and identify arthritis or structural problems so we can choose the right treatment approach.
Flat Feet Treatment Options
Most painful flat feet respond well to conservative care. Custom orthotics are one of the most effective treatments, supporting the arch, controlling excess motion, and reducing strain on tendons and joints. Other options include supportive footwear, stretching and strengthening exercises, bracing for tendon dysfunction, and activity modification. Chronic tendon pain may also benefit from EPAT shock wave therapy. When the arch continues to collapse or pain persists despite conservative care, our surgically trained podiatrists can perform reconstructive procedures to restore alignment.
Flat Feet in Children
Most children are born with flexible flat feet, and many develop an arch by age six. Treatment is usually only needed if your child has pain, tires easily, or avoids activities. Our team evaluates pediatric flat feet and recommends orthotics or other care when appropriate. Learn more on our conditions treated page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flat Feet Treatment
Are flat feet a problem?
Flat feet are not always painful, but they can cause arch, heel, and ankle pain and contribute to other foot and leg problems.
Can adults develop flat feet?
Yes. Adult-acquired flatfoot often develops when the posterior tibial tendon weakens due to age, injury, weight, or arthritis.
Do custom orthotics help flat feet?
Yes. Custom orthotics support the arch, improve alignment, and reduce stress on tendons and joints, which relieves pain for many patients.
Should my child’s flat feet be treated?
Most flexible flat feet in children do not need treatment. Have your child evaluated if they complain of pain, fatigue, or have trouble keeping up with activities.
Can flat feet cause knee or back pain?
Yes. Flat feet can change the way you walk and place extra stress on the knees, hips, and lower back.
What shoes are best for flat feet?
Choose shoes with firm heel counters, good arch support, and stable midsoles. Your podiatrist can recommend specific features for your foot type.
When is surgery recommended for flat feet?
Surgery may be recommended for rigid or progressive flat feet that cause ongoing pain despite orthotics, bracing, and other conservative treatment.
Get Relief with Flat Feet Treatment in Houston
Our podiatrists are ready to help you move comfortably again. Call our Gessner office at (713) 464-3775 or our Greenhouse office at (281) 371-3338, or request an appointment online.