Do you have ‘arch enemies’? Better see our podiatrist!

Do you know whether the arches of your feet are normal, high or flat? You may not think it’s important, but as our podiatrist at Dr. Merrick L. Horn can attest, if you’re having foot pain or problems with balance and stability, it may be because of a condition linked to these structures that help you comfortably stand, balance, walk and jump. 

Let’s explain why understanding the different types of arches is important.

• The most common type is the normal arch, with its visible curve along the inner sole of the foot. A normal arch distributes weight evenly and usually doesn’t require specific footwear support.

• Flat feet have minimal to no visible arch, which means the entire foot touches the ground when standing. People with flat feet can experience pain in the feet, ankles, knees and possibly hips when walking or running because their feet tend to roll inward. 

• Feet with very high arches may have only the heel and ball of the foot making contact with the ground, which puts extra stress on the joints because there’s very little shock absorption. 

A visit to our podiatrist includes assessing your arch type, analyzing your gait (the way you walk), and identifying any potential foot problems. We’ll offer treatment for your discomfort, recommend appropriate footwear, inserts or custom orthotics to suit your needs, and provide tips for properly caring for your feet and ankles. Besides providing a stronger foundation for balance and mobility, our expertise will improve your athletic performance and prevent foot and ankle problems from recurring in the future.

Understanding your arch type is an important step toward keeping your feet comfortable and healthy. Our doctor of podiatry at Dr. Merrick L. Horn is the foremost expert when it comes to assessing and treating all conditions of the foot and ankle, so please contact us to schedule an appointment today!

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Footprints to Fitness: Why Knowing Your Arch Type Matters

Why Knowing Your Arch Type Matters

Understanding your arch type can significantly impact your footwear choices. Proper shoes provide essential support and cushioning, which can:

• Reduce foot pain and discomfort [Source: American Podiatric Medical Association].
• Improve balance and stability [Source: American Podiatric Medical Association].
• Enhance athletic performance [Source: Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association, "The Role of Footwear in Preventing Sports Injuries"].
• Prevent future foot problems [Source: American Podiatric Medical Association].

Consulting a Podiatrist: Your Foot Health Expert

A podiatrist is a doctor specializing in foot and ankle health. They possess the expertise to assess your arch type, analyze your gait (walking pattern), and identify any potential foot problems.

Here's how a podiatrist can help:

• Diagnose arch type and any related foot conditions.
• Recommend appropriate footwear based on your needs.
• Offer personalized treatment plans for existing foot pain.
• Provide guidance on maintaining optimal foot health. [Source: American Podiatric Medical Association]

So, the next time you think about your feet, remember: knowing your arch type is a valuable step towards keeping them healthy and pain-free. Consulting a podiatrist can be the key to unlocking a lifetime of comfortable movement!