Flatfoot deformity (or pes planus) is a very common foot type. At Bay Area Podiatry Group in San Leandro, California, experienced podiatrists Jenny Yu, DPM, and Renee Woo, DPM, specialize in diagnosing and treating flatfoot. After an exam and discussing your symptoms, they can make personalized care recommendations that ease your pain and improve your mobility. Call the office today to request a flatfoot consultation or book your appointment online.

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What is flatfoot?

Flatfoot is a structural abnormality affecting the arches of your feet.  The most common reason one has flat feet is due to a weak posterior tibial tendon, commonly known as “PTTD” (posterior tibial tendon dysfunction)

All babies are born with flat feet, but the arches typically form by age 6-8.  Many people live with flat feet pain free.  But the structure of a flatfoot can make one susceptible to certain conditions.

If your feet make full contact with the floor every time you stand up and you experience persistent foot pain, contact Bay Area Podiatry Group.

What are the signs/symptoms of flatfoot / PTTD?

Flatfoot can present in the following manner:

  • Collapsed arches
  • Feet pointing outwards (i.e., abducted) when walking
  • Difficulty standing on tip toes (due to weak posteior tibial tendon)
  • Early fatigue when exercising
  • Plantar fasciitis (heel pain)

How is flatfoot/PTTD diagnosed?

Dr. Yu reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and completes a podiatry exam. She checks the bottoms of your feet and evaluates how your arches look when you sit, stand, and walk.  She will xrays to understand your bony structure.

How is flatfoot treated?

At Bay Area Podiatry Group, Dr. Yu takes a personalized, patient-centered approach to flatfoot treatment.  PTTD / painful flatfoot is a complex problem, so Dr. Yu will work with you to come up with a highly personalized treatment regimen.  Common treatments include:

  • Anti-inflammatory medicine
  • Physical therapy
  • Custom orthotics
  • Surgery (when all else fails)

Call Bay Area Podiatry Group today or make your appointment online to get a full evaluation / consultation for your painful flatfoot deformity.