Flat Feet Specialist

Robert J. Landy, D.P.M.

Podiatrist located in West Islip, NY & Hicksville, NY

Flat feet aren’t generally anything to be concerned about. But if you have chronic foot and ankle pain due to your flat feet, it’s time to see what the podiatry team at the offices of Robert J. Landy, D.P.M. in West Islip and Hicksville, New York, can do for you. The podiatric experts can diagnose any underlying causes and give your feet the care they need. Book an appointment online or over the phone today.

Flat Feet Q & A

Why do I have flat feet?

Flat feet are sometimes something you’re born with. But, they can also develop later in life. Your arches can fall, and you can have flat feet due to:

  • Being overweight or obese
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Foot or ankle injury
  • Diabetic collapse

Your chances of getting flat feet can also increase if you’re over age 40, especially if you’re female. Pregnancy can also cause your arches to fall, since pregnancy-related hormones can relax your ligaments, and the increase in body weight can put added stress on your feet.

Do flat feet cause symptoms?

Not always, although flat feet can certainly affect your gait and the way you walk, which over time can lead to discomfort. Flat feet can cause:

  • Arch or heel pain
  • Ankle pain or swelling
  • Pain that worsens with activity

If you continue experiencing symptoms associated with flat feet, you can start developing secondary issues. For instance, if you start changing the way you walk to alleviate chronic foot pain, you may experience knee, hip, or lower back pain.

What is the treatment for flat feet?

The podiatric experts at the practice of Robert J. Landy, D.P.M. provide comprehensive flat feet evaluations and personalized treatment plans. Your dedicated podiatrist will likely gather digital X-rays or ultrasound images to get a better understanding of your foot mechanics.

After getting to the root of why you have flat feet and addressing your symptoms, your podiatrist can develop your treatment plan, which may include:

  • Custom supportive orthotics
  • Specialized stretching exercises
  • Structurally supportive shoes
  • Physical therapy sessions

If your flat feet are caused by an injury, such as a tendon tear, you might need surgery to correct the underlying issue. Generally, surgery is the last resort, since conservative therapies and specialized stretching exercises can often improve discomfort. No matter which type of treatment is right for you, the podiatric experts at the offices of Robert J. Landy, D.P.M. will work diligently to correct the problem.

To schedule your flat feet evaluation, book an appointment online or over the phone at Robert J. Landy, D.P.M. today.