Our Services / Flatfoot

What is flatfoot?

Flatfoot occurs when the soles of your feet make direct contact with the ground. All babies have flat feet, but they typically develop arches by age two or three. 

However, some people never develop arches. This doesn’t always cause problems, but if you suffer from persistent foot or heel pain, you should make an appointment with Dr. DeCarbo at Greater Pittsburgh Foot & Ankle Center.

What are the types of flatfoot?

At Greater Pittsburgh Foot & Ankle Center, Dr. DeCarbo treats several types of flatfoot, including:

Flexible flatfoot

If you have flexible flatfoot, your feet appear to have arches during rest. When you stand up or place weight on them, your arches disappear.

Rigid flatfoot

If you have rigid flatfoot, it means your arches aren’t visible regardless of sitting or standing. Rigid flatfoot typically develops during adolescence and often worsens with age.

Adult-acquired flatfoot

Adult-acquired flatfoot occurs when one or both arches collapse due to an injury or a structural abnormality. Typically, adult-acquired flatfoot only affects one foot (not both).

What causes flatfoot?

Flatfoot occurs for various reasons, including:

• Achilles tendon injuries
• Fractures
• Diabetes
• Cerebral palsy
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Rheumatoid arthritis

You may also experience flatfoot due to genetics, as the condition tends to run in families.

How is flatfoot diagnosed?

At Greater Pittsburgh Foot & Ankle Center, Dr. DeCarbo diagnoses flatfoot during a visit in the office. 

At the beginning of the appointment, Dr. DeCarbo reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms. Then, he asks you to remove your shoes and socks before examining your feet.

Next, Dr. DeCarbo has you stand up, sit down, and walk around the exam room to evaluate your arches. If he suspects an underlying problem, like a fracture or a dislocated joint, Dr. DeCarbo may also order X-rays.

How is flatfoot treated?

At Greater Pittsburgh Foot & Ankle Center, Dr. DeCarbo treats flatfoot using conservative and noninvasive treatments. Depending on your age and the severity of your symptoms, he may recommend:

• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Physical therapy
• At-home stretches and strengthening exercises
• Custom orthotics
• Prescription shoes

The goal of flatfoot treatment is to relieve pain, encourage your mobility, and improve your daily quality of life.

To make an appointment for flatfoot treatment, call the Greater Pittsburgh Foot & Ankle Center in Wexford, Pennsylvania, or book online today.