Which Specialist to Consult for Flat Feet and Related Pain?

Q: Which Specialist to Consult for Flat Feet and Related Pain?

Hello Desson, based on the information you provided： 1. Height： 168 cm, Weight： 72 kg, BMI： 25.51, which classifies you as overweight and indicates a need for weight loss. 2. Flexibility： 30, which is within the standard range. 3. Due to experienci

Flatfoot?

Smoking 20 cigarettes a day; irregular exercise habits and suffering from depression, regularly visiting a doctor; taking medication for epilepsy and experiencing chest pain during exercise, with a history of chest pain at rest.
Height: 168 cm, Weight: 72 kg, BMI: 25.51 (overweight), Flexibility: 30 (very good) ------ (the above is the online assessment result) ------ Which specialty should I consult for flat feet issues (pain in the heels and lower back from prolonged standing)?

desson, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/05/25

Dr. Peng Yingjie reply Physical Fitness

Hello Desson, based on the information you provided:
1.
Height: 168 cm, Weight: 72 kg, BMI: 25.51, which classifies you as overweight and indicates a need for weight loss.

2.
Flexibility: 30, which is within the standard range.

3.
Due to experiencing chest pain during exercise and also at rest, please first visit a cardiology outpatient clinic at a hospital to check for any cardiopulmonary issues.
After that, go to a fitness outpatient clinic at a hospital for strength and cardiopulmonary endurance testing to assess your overall fitness status.

4.
Currently, you smoke 20 cigarettes a day and have no regular exercise habits, so please refrain from engaging in vigorous exercise until the cardiopulmonary examination and overall fitness assessment are completed.
After that, we can plan the types and frequency of exercise.
Additionally, it is highly recommended to quit smoking; if you need assistance, you can contact the smoking cessation clinic at a hospital.

5.
You have been diagnosed with depression and anxiety, are receiving regular medical care, and are taking medications such as Lamotrigine and Duloxetine.
Please continue with outpatient follow-ups and take medications as prescribed by your physician.

6.
You have flat feet, which cause pain in your heels and lower back when standing for long periods.
You can seek evaluation, examination, and treatment from a rehabilitation or orthopedic department.

Reply Date: 2002/05/25

More Info

If you are experiencing issues related to flat feet (also known as pes planus) and associated pain in your heels and lower back, the most appropriate specialist to consult would be a podiatrist. Podiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the feet, ankles, and lower extremities. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your flat feet, assess any associated pain, and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Flat feet can lead to various complications, including pain in the feet, ankles, knees, hips, and lower back due to the altered biomechanics of walking and standing. When the arch of the foot is flattened, it can cause overpronation, where the foot rolls inward excessively. This can lead to strain on the muscles and ligaments of the foot and leg, contributing to discomfort and pain.

In addition to seeing a podiatrist, you may also consider consulting an orthopedic specialist, particularly one who focuses on foot and ankle issues. Orthopedic surgeons can provide insights into more severe structural problems and may recommend surgical options if conservative treatments fail.

Here are some common treatment options that a podiatrist or orthopedic specialist might suggest for flat feet and related pain:
1. Orthotic Devices: Custom-made or over-the-counter arch supports can help provide the necessary support to your feet, improving alignment and reducing pain.

2. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design a rehabilitation program that includes exercises to strengthen the muscles of the foot and leg, improve flexibility, and enhance overall function.

3. Footwear Modifications: Wearing supportive shoes that provide adequate cushioning and arch support is crucial. Avoiding high heels and shoes with inadequate support can help alleviate pain.

4. Activity Modification: If certain activities exacerbate your pain, it may be beneficial to modify your routine. Low-impact exercises, such as swimming or cycling, can help maintain fitness without putting excessive strain on your feet.

5. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may help manage discomfort. In some cases, your doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections for inflammation.

6. Surgery: In severe cases where conservative treatments do not provide relief, surgical options may be considered to correct structural issues in the foot.

Given your history of smoking, irregular exercise habits, and other health concerns, it is essential to discuss these factors with your healthcare provider. Smoking can negatively impact circulation and healing, which may complicate recovery from foot-related issues. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise can significantly benefit your overall musculoskeletal health and reduce the strain on your feet and lower back.

In summary, for flat feet and related pain, start by consulting a podiatrist. They can evaluate your condition, recommend appropriate treatments, and refer you to other specialists if necessary. Addressing your flat feet early can help prevent further complications and improve your quality of life.

Similar Q&A

Persistent Foot Pain: When to Consult an Orthopedic Specialist

I have been experiencing soreness, numbness, and pain in the soles of my feet. I have seen a neurosurgeon several times, but the medication has been ineffective, and the discomfort is getting worse. Should I consider seeing an orthopedic specialist?

Dr. Yang Zhengfan reply Orthopedics
Dear May, I believe you may be experiencing sciatica. Typical sciatica is caused by a herniated disc between the vertebrae, which leads to nerve compression, resulting in symptoms such as pain, numbness, and tingling in the feet. I recommend that you consult an orthopedic special...

Finding the Right Specialist for Persistent Ankle Pain Relief

My father has been suffering from ankle pain for nearly three months. He visited an orthopedic doctor who took X-rays and mentioned that there is a small bone spur, but it needs to grow larger before surgery can be considered. The problem is that my father often limps after walki...

Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics
In the case of bone spurs in the ankle or heel (especially the heel), surgery is generally considered if the spur exceeds one centimeter. Other conservative treatments include using cushioned shoes or soft insoles for protection or rehabilitation. For more detailed treatment opti...

Which Specialist to Consult for Persistent Leg Discomfort in Seniors?

Hello Doctor, my mother is 80 years old and generally in good health without any issues related to hypertension, diabetes, or hyperlipidemia. Since February of this year, she has been experiencing extreme soreness around her left ankle extending to her calf (the soreness begins w...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Based on your description, there are many factors to consider regarding discomfort and numbness in the lower limbs. Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) has recently gained more attention as a symptom. The exact cause is unclear; however, it is currently believed to be related to iron le...

Which Medical Specialty Should You Consult for Diabetic Foot Issues?

Hello Doctor: Diabetes can lead to foot complications, and which department should one consult for a foot examination? Should it be the Department of Metabolism, Internal Medicine, Surgery, Neurosurgery, Dermatology, or Oncology? I would greatly appreciate your response. Thank yo...

Dr. Shi Guangzhong reply Internal Medicine
1. Regarding which department to consult for foot examinations: Foot lesions can be identified through some simple assessments. Medical institutions within the diabetes care network typically include foot examinations as part of their services. The assessment of small nerve funct...