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Boston Institute Demonstrates Relationship between Flat Feet and Back Pain

Flat FeetA research team at the Institute for Aging Research in Boston, led by scientist Marian Hannan, has conducted a study that shows there is a correlation between having flat feet and back pain.

Hannan and her colleagues gathered data by asking their subjects, who were women in their 60’s, to walk across a special mat embedded with sensors. Their analysis showed that the participants with flat feet or who over-pronated were more likely to report experiencing pain in their lower backs.

Having flat feet can result in the development of numerous other irritating conditions. If you are flat-footed and want help with your discomfort, consider contacting podiatrist Dr. Sorelis Jimenez of Foot Health Podiatry. Dr. Jimenez can help determine what your problem is and suggest possible alternatives.

What are Flat Feet?

Flat feet are a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. Standing about 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arch never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – if you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms:

- Pain around the heel or arch area
- Trouble standing on the tip toe.
- Swelling around the inside of the ankle.
- Flat look to one or both feet.
- Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment:

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. There are several ways to help treat this pain and help flat feet.

Barefoot- studies show that those who grew up going barefoot, wearing less closed-toe shoes have more of an arch. This so happens because the strength and fullness of the arch increased.

Exercise- the will strengthen and stretch the area, helping with the Achilles tendon.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in New York, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Flat Feet.

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