NAPLES, FL — Are fallen arches a real foot problem, or just a label for chronically sore feet? Naples, FL foot and ankle surgeon Dr. Kevin Lam, D.P.M., FACFAS, DABLES, DABPS, says fallen arches –or flat feet– are a legitimate medical condition affecting five percent of Americans.
Adult flat foot
“Flat feet can be present at birth, or develop over decades of walking, running and overall time spent on the feet, especially on hard surfaces in the workplace,” says Dr. Lam.
There are several types of flatfoot conditions that occur in adults. The most common type is adult-acquired flatfoot. It is caused by overstretching a tendon that supports the arch. Another common type is flexible flatfoot, in which the foot is flat when standing, but returns to a normal arch in non-weight-bearing positions.
“Flat feet can be very painful and make people avoid walking, running and exercise,” says Dr. Lam. “But if you seek medical attention early, a foot and ankle surgeon may be able to prevent it from becoming a more serious foot problem.”
Dr. Lam says treatments may include modifying of limiting activities, stretching exercises, custom shoe inserts and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. If those techniques don’t work, He says a variety of surgical procedures may be considered to relieve pain and improve foot function.
To contact Dr. Lam about flatfoot treatment or other painful foot conditions, call his office at (239) 430-3668.
Dr. Kevin Lam is a member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Visit NaplesPodiatrist.com or FootHealthFacts.org Web site for reliable information on fallen arches and other conditions.
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Serving Southwest Florida Since 2005, Family Foot & Leg Center has 9 convenient locations throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties. Offering pediatric to geriatric family care: Ingrown Toenails, Heel Pain, Bunions, Foot / Ankle Arthritis Pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Foot / Ankle Surgery, Custom Orthotics, and Diabetic Wound Care. In office X-rays, ultrasounds, and minor surgical suite exam rooms. Practice powered by EMR and advanced technologies. Home of the Lam Minimal Invasive No-Scar Bunion Surgery! Come Discover Why Patients Love Our 5-Star Foot & Ankle Care! Same Day Appointments! Easy Online Appointment Scheduling!
