Let’s Talk About Your Arches
How much do you know about the arches in your feet? Each of your feet contains 26 bones – that’s more than a quarter of the bones in your entire body! – arranged in a series of delicate arches. These arches make it possible for humans to stand and walk upright, a unique quality in all of nature. When the arches are not quite right – when they are higher or lower than nature intended – issues can result. Fortunately, a foot doctor like Cook County podiatrist Dr. Stavros O. Alexopoulos is an expert at examining feet, ankles, and lower legs, diagnosing the source of your discomfort and providing effective treatment to offer relief.
High arches are known medically as pes cavus. They can occur in men, women, and children and often occur due to genetic predisposition. They are less common than low or “fallen” arches. In addition to heredity, these partially or fully collapsed arches can result from a variety of causes, including:
- illnesses such as diabetes and arthritis
- excess weight or obesity
- aging
- pregnancy
The symptoms of both types of arch deformities are similar. These can include:
- difficulty wearing shoes
- pain and discomfort standing, walking, or exercising
- tired, achy feet
- inflammation
If your podiatrist diagnoses arch issues, surgery is rarely required. Instead, numerous non-invasive treatment options will be available to you. Common approaches might include over-the-counter and prescription medication for pain and swelling, physical therapy, specialty footwear, and the prescription of custom orthotics to provide additional cushioning and support in your shoes, boots, and sneakers.
Are you experiencing foot pain, or do you have another concern about the health and wellness of your feet, ankles, or lower legs? It’s time for a visit with your podiatrist. A foot doctor like Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM, is a medical specialist and is the best-qualified professional to care for this part of your body. Schedule a visit to My Chicago Foot Expert’s modern, comfortable offices in the Ravenswood area. Call our friendly staff at (773) 561-8100 or click here to get started today.
