Has anyone been diagnosed with Flat feet resulting in tendon dysfunction? I have been having pain/swelling just below my inner ankle for months and just finally had it looked at, they recommended immobilization and then custom arches($600 out of pocket) I am just wondering what has helped others and if you did have surgery/customs did it help?
My husband has flat feet and uses the Dr. Scholl's arch supports. You stand on a machine that shows you where you're pressure is distributed and then it recomends a certain insole. They run about $50 a foot but that's a lot cheaper than $600. You can find them at Wal-Mart.
If you're up for it, you might consider going to see a DO physician who practices osteopathic manipulative medicine or chiropractor possibly. There are a couple simple techniques they can use to engage the arches in your feet, without getting surgery or anything invasive.
One of the really simple methods we were taught was to just get a round bottle and roll it on the ground with your foot on top arched around the shape of the bottle. Just roll it back and forth and you'd be surprised how much it can reshape your arches. Just be sure to use plastic just in case a glass bottle breaks!
I have a friend who swears by Z Coil shoes. Check online for their website.
I was never diagnosed, but suspected I had that problem. It wasn't so severe I needed to see a doctor, but I hobbled around for several weeks. I tried my best to stay off my feet for several days and iced the bottom of my feet at every opportunity. Then I only wore tennis shoes with an excellent arch for about a month. The pain went away. Since then it hasn't returned, but I bought some "inside shoes" (where before I went shoeless inside) with a good arch. I didn't have the need for expensive shoes, but you may have a more severe case. Maybe seek a second opinion.
Good luck.
I could write a book on this topic. Ultimately, yes, get the $600 Orthodicts. You may have Plantar Faciitis, which is a common condition and very painful. I had steroid injections in both feet several times, was on Celebrex for months, and iced them regularly to get the PF to go away. And, I got the Orthodicts and wear them dutifully.
A little history... I have always had flat feet and spent 18 years growing up figure skating, running long distance, and ballet dancing, so my feet have been beaten to a pulp (and I'm 30).
My doctor is a Sports Orthopedic Podiatrist www.posmc.com
