Flat Feet: Seeking Treatment and Specialist Recommendations

I might have a bit of flatfoot?

Recently, I've been experiencing frequent numbness in my feet.
When I previously visited a doctor for my ankle sprains, they mentioned that my feet are not suitable for exercise and that I have low arches.
My left foot often rolls over, and even when I press on it now, it still hurts.
My right foot has been normal for quite a while, several years actually.
I have been wearing an ankle brace, but after walking for about 10 minutes, the soles of my feet become very painful, so I eventually stopped wearing it and reduced my activity level.
What should I do to address this issue? Also, if I go to Keelung Hospital, which department should I see—orthopedics or rehabilitation? I have seen Dr.
Kuo Chuhua in orthopedics...
um...
could you recommend a good doctor who specializes in this area?

Evance, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/03/12

Dr. Pan Yingda reply Rehabilitation

Hello, I suggest you see a rehabilitation specialist.
Your issue is not significantly related to flat feet, as flat feet have likely been present since childhood.
The main problem stems from not properly rehabilitating after an ankle sprain, which has led to subsequent issues.
There are a few approaches to address this problem:
1.
Adhesions may form in the injured tissue, so it is necessary to perform deeper massage to break these adhesions.
If you identify painful points, apply firm pressure for about 3 to 5 minutes.
You will find several points that are more painful; it's important to locate and address each one.
After the massage, you may experience some increased pain and swelling the next day, but that's okay—continue the massage until the pain subsides.
This concept is often overlooked by general practitioners or therapists, but without this approach, old injuries may not heal properly.
A common phenomenon is that everything feels fine until you increase your activity level, walk longer distances, or experience changes in weather, at which point discomfort in the foot arises—these are often due to adhesions.
2.
Strength and proprioception need to be trained.
After an injury, fear of using the affected area and resting can lead to significant muscle atrophy.
Additionally, most doctors advise patients to avoid movement and rest, and long-term use of protective devices can hinder muscle recovery.
If these two aspects are not addressed, the same area is likely to be reinjured, compounding the problem, which is why old injuries often do not heal.
Do not be afraid to exercise, but focus on rebuilding strength and proprioception first; otherwise, re-injury is likely.
If you are still unclear about these two points, seek out a specialist doctor and therapist.
If your current doctor and therapist do not understand these treatment and training principles, consider finding someone else.
Wishing you a speedy return to being an active participant in sports!

Reply Date: 2007/03/12

More Info

Flat feet, or pes planus, is a common condition where the arches of the feet are either low or nonexistent. This can lead to various symptoms, including foot pain, discomfort during physical activities, and even issues with balance. Your experience of foot numbness and pain, especially after walking for a short duration, suggests that your flat feet may be contributing to these symptoms.
The discomfort you feel, particularly in your left foot, could be due to overpronation, which is common in individuals with flat feet. Overpronation occurs when the foot rolls inward excessively during walking or running, which can lead to strain on the ligaments and muscles of the foot and ankle. This may explain why you experience pain and discomfort even with the use of an ankle brace.

To address your concerns, it is essential to seek a comprehensive evaluation from a specialist. In your case, both orthopedic and rehabilitation specialists can provide valuable insights. An orthopedic doctor can assess the structural aspects of your feet and recommend treatments such as custom orthotics, physical therapy, or, in severe cases, surgical options. On the other hand, a rehabilitation specialist can help you with exercises to strengthen the muscles of your feet and improve your overall foot mechanics.

In terms of treatment, here are some options you might consider:
1. Orthotics: Custom-made orthotic devices can provide support to the arch of your foot, helping to distribute weight more evenly and reduce pain during activities.

2. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design a specific exercise program to strengthen the muscles in your feet and legs, improve flexibility, and enhance your overall foot function.

3. Footwear: Wearing supportive shoes that provide adequate arch support is crucial. Avoid flat shoes or those with minimal support, as they can exacerbate your symptoms.

4. Activity Modification: Since you mentioned that walking for 10 minutes causes pain, it may be beneficial to gradually increase your activity level while monitoring your symptoms. Low-impact activities, such as swimming or cycling, may be easier on your feet.

5. Pain Management: If you experience significant pain, over-the-counter pain relievers may help. However, consult with a healthcare professional before starting any medication.

Regarding your question about which department to visit at the Keelung Municipal Hospital, I recommend starting with the Orthopedic Department. They can provide a thorough evaluation of your foot structure and function. If necessary, they may refer you to a rehabilitation specialist for further management.

As for specific doctors, while I cannot provide personal recommendations, you can inquire about orthopedic specialists who have experience with flat feet and related conditions. It may also be helpful to ask for referrals from your primary care physician or other healthcare providers.

In summary, addressing flat feet requires a multifaceted approach that includes proper evaluation, supportive devices, physical therapy, and possibly lifestyle modifications. By seeking the right specialist and following a tailored treatment plan, you can work towards alleviating your symptoms and improving your foot health.

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