Flat Feet Treatment in New Canaan, CT
Flat feet — a condition in which the arch of the foot collapses so that the entire sole touches the ground — affects millions of Americans. While many people with flat feet live without symptoms, others experience significant pain, fatigue, and complications that affect their ability to stand, walk, and stay active.
At New Canaan Podiatry, board-certified podiatrist Dr. Jennifer Tauber, DPM, evaluates and treats flat feet for patients of all ages in New Canaan, CT . Whether you need preventive care, symptom management, or more advanced treatment, Dr. Tauber will develop a plan that addresses both your immediate discomfort and your long-term foot health.
Book OnlineWhat Causes Flat Feet?
Flat feet can be congenital — present from birth — or can develop over time due to a variety of factors:
- Genetics — Some people inherit a foot structure with a naturally low or absent arch
- Age and obesity — These factors can weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which supports the arch, causing the arch to gradually fall
- Pregnancy — Hormonal changes can loosen ligaments and allow the arch to flatten
- Injury — A torn or stretched posterior tibial tendon can lead to adult-acquired flat foot
- Rheumatoid arthritis — Can cause inflammation and erosion of the joint structures that support the arch
It is completely normal for infants and toddlers to have flat feet, as arches typically develop during childhood. If arches have not formed by ages 3–5, an evaluation is recommended.
Symptoms of Flat Feet
Many people with flat feet experience no pain at all. However, when symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Foot pain or fatigue, especially along the inner side of the foot and ankle
- Ankle swelling
- Knee and hip pain resulting from altered gait mechanics
- Difficulty standing on tiptoe
- Shoes wearing down unevenly, particularly on the inner sole
Flat Feet Treatment Options
Dr. Tauber will visually examine your feet, assess your gait, and may order imaging to determine the extent and cause of your flat feet. Treatment is tailored to the severity of your condition and your symptoms:
- Custom orthotics — Prescription inserts that support the arch and correct alignment
- Supportive footwear — Shoes with proper arch support and motion control
- Stretching and physical therapy — Exercises to strengthen the posterior tibial tendon and calf muscles
- Anti-inflammatory medications — To relieve pain and reduce inflammation
- Bracing and ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) — For more significant collapse
- Surgery — For severe cases involving a torn or ruptured tendon, surgical reconstruction may be recommended to restore arch structure
Children with flat feet are often candidates for custom orthotics that support healthy arch development. Early treatment can prevent progression and complications as your child grows.
Call (203) 548-7688 or schedule online for your flat feet evaluation. Also see: custom orthotics, heel pain, plantar fasciitis.
Flat Feet FAQs
Are flat feet a serious medical condition?
For many people, flat feet cause no problems and require no treatment. However, when flat feet cause pain, alter gait mechanics, or lead to complications in the knees, hips, or lower back, treatment is important to prevent long-term issues.
Can flat feet be corrected?
In children, arch development can often be encouraged with orthotics and appropriate footwear. In adults, the structural collapse cannot always be fully reversed, but symptoms can be effectively managed with conservative treatments. Severe cases involving tendon damage may require surgical reconstruction.
Do flat feet cause back pain?
Yes. When the arch collapses, it alters the alignment of the entire lower extremity — causing the knees to bow inward, the hips to rotate, and the lower back to compensate. This chain reaction can cause pain throughout the musculoskeletal system.
How do I know if my child’s flat feet are a problem?
Flat feet are normal in infants and toddlers. If your child’s arches have not begun to develop by ages 3–5, or if they complain of foot or leg pain, avoid physical activity, or have trouble with balance, an evaluation with Dr. Tauber is a good idea.
What type of shoes are best for flat feet?
Motion-control and stability shoes with firm midsoles and reinforced heel counters provide the best support for flat feet. Avoid flexible or minimalist footwear, high heels, and unsupportive shoes like flip-flops.
Do I need surgery for flat feet?
Surgery is reserved for severe cases — particularly those involving a torn or severely degenerated posterior tibial tendon — where conservative measures have failed to relieve symptoms. The vast majority of patients respond well to non-surgical treatment.
Can flat feet cause plantar fasciitis?
Yes. Flat feet change the distribution of stress across the bottom of the foot, which can overstress the plantar fascia and lead to plantar fasciitis. Custom orthotics that support the arch are one of the most effective treatments for both conditions.