Flat Foot Specialist
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Kent Jarvis, DPM
Board Qualified Podiatrist located in Humble, TX
Flat foot occurs when the soles of your feet make direct contact with the ground. It’s a common structural abnormality that affects about 30% of the population. At his Houston-area practice, Kent Jarvis, DPM, uses safe, effective treatments to manage flat foot. If you’re tired of living with foot pain, schedule an appointment at The Woodlands or Atascocita, Texas, location, by booking online or calling to speak with a staff member today.
Flat Foot Q & A
What is flat foot?
Flat foot is a foot without a visible arch — the curved area of skin, muscle, and soft tissue that runs from your toes to your heel.
If you have a flat foot, it’s difficult for your feet to support the weight of your upper body. As a result, you’re at risk of experiencing back and leg pain, poor posture, and mobility issues.
Some people are born with flat feet while others develop the condition due to wear-and-tear or trauma. There’s no cure for a flat foot, but it’s possible to improve the alignment of your legs and, in turn, your quality of life.
What are the symptoms of a flat foot?
The most obvious symptom of a flat foot is a foot without a visible arch. Often, low or non-existent arches present no obvious side-effects. Many people have flat feet their entire lives and don’t realize it. If you regularly experience foot or leg pain, and it doesn’t respond to conservative treatments like rest or over-the-counter medication, seek professional help.
Who is at risk of a flat foot?
Flat foot affects people of all genders and races, but several factors may increase your risk, including:
- Being overweight
- Experiencing a foot or ankle injury
- Having rheumatoid arthritis
- Being middle-aged or older
You’re also more likely to experience flat foot if you’re living with diabetes — a chronic disease that affects your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar (glucose).
How is a flat foot diagnosed?
To diagnose a flat foot, Dr. Jarvis physically examines your arches, assesses the wear pattern on your shoes, and observes your gait and posture. If you experience foot pain, he also orders diagnostic imaging tests like X-rays, a computed tomography (CT) scan, or an MRI. These technologies allow him to diagnose fractures, dislocations, or soft tissue injuries.
How is a flat foot treated?
Treatment for a flat foot depends on the intensity of your symptoms and their effect on your daily routine. Dr. Jarvis might recommend:
- At-home stretching exercises
- Custom orthotics
- Wearing more comfortable shoes
- Physical therapy
If your symptoms are due to a tendon tear or tendon rupture, you might benefit from surgical intervention.
To receive treatment for a flat foot, request a consultation at the practice of Kent Jarvis, DPM. Call to speak with a member of the support staff or book online today.
