Your feet can have a significant impact on the rest of your body. At Arlington/Mansfield Foot & Ankle Centers, with offices in Arlington and Mansfield, Texas, our board-certified podiatrists often see this dynamic firsthand.
Your feet are the foundation of your body. Each foot has three arches that work together to absorb shock and distribute your body weight evenly when you move. When these arches collapse, a condition known as flat feet or pes planus, the foundation becomes unstable.
With every step you take, flat feet can cause your ankles to roll inward, a condition known as overpronation. This slight, repetitive misalignment triggers a reaction up your kinetic chain.
Compensating for the instability in your feet forces your knees, hips, and eventually your lower back into unnatural positions. Over time, this added stress can lead to muscle strain, joint pain, and chronic discomfort in your lower back.
If you have flat feet and persistent back pain, there’s a good chance the two issues are connected.
Common signs that your back pain may be related to flat feet include:
Our team at Arlington/Mansfield Foot & Ankle Centers can perform a comprehensive evaluation, including a gait analysis, to determine if your flat feet are contributing to your back pain.
If we identify flat feet as the source of your lower back pain, we can develop a personalized treatment plan to address the root cause of the problem. One of the most effective solutions is custom orthotics.
Unlike over-the-counter inserts, our custom-molded orthotics are designed for the unique contours of your feet. They provide the precise support needed to correct your alignment, absorb impact, and restore balance to your entire body.
In addition to orthotics, we may recommend specific stretching exercises or physical therapy to strengthen the muscles in your feet and legs, further improving your stability and reducing strain on your lower back.
Don’t let chronic back pain limit your life. If you suspect your flat feet may be to blame, our team at Arlington/Mansfield Foot & Ankle Centers can help. To learn more, give us a call or request your appointment online today.
