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Flat Feet

What Are Flat Feet?

Also known as fallen arches or Pes Planus, Flat feet occur when the foot’s arch structure weakens or fails, causing the foot to roll inward (overpronate). This affects shock absorption, tendon alignment, and the distribution of forces across the ankle, knees, hips, and even the lower back.

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Common Causes of Flat Feet

  • Genetics (congenital flexible flat feet)
  • Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD)
  • Arthritis or chronic inflammation
  • Diabetes or neuropathy-related arch collapse
  • Injury to the foot or ankle
  • Obesity or rapid weight gain
  • Pregnancy
  • Age-related weakening of tendons and ligaments
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Symptoms

Flat feet may be painless for some, or cause:

  • Arch and heel pain
  • Ankle weakness or instability
  • Knee, hip, or lower-back discomfort
  • Burning, numbness, or fatigue in the feet
  • Difficulty standing or walking for long periods
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Comprehensive Foot Evaluation

Dr. Lang begins with a focused, clinical evaluation of how your feet function during standing and basic movement—not a full biomechanical gait analysis, but a targeted podiatric assessment designed to identify the true source of your symptoms.

When needed, Dr. Lang uses targeted diagnostic tools to determine whether the problem is structural, tendon-based, inflammatory, vascular, or metabolic.

He evaluates:

  • Foot structure and alignment
  • Posterior tibial tendon strength
  • Presence of overpronation or midfoot collapse
  • Functional changes during simple weight-bearing

He may use:

  • Digital X-rays – evaluates bone alignment, joint spacing, and arthritis
  • Ultrasound – assesses tendon integrity, tears, or inflammation
  • Smart-LEDA vascular & sudomotor testing – identifies microvascular or neuropathic contributors
  • Custom pressure-mapping (when indicated) – shows pressure overload patterns that worsen flat-foot symptoms

These tools allow Dr. Lang to identify the exact driver of pain or arch collapse and create a treatment plan tailored to your foot’s mechanics and overall health

At New Orleans Podiatry, Your Feet Are Never an Afterthought

Flat feet are more than a structural issue—they influence balance, gait, posture, and joint health. Dr. Lang takes the time to understand the whole picture, from tendon integrity to metabolic factors that may be contributing to your symptoms.

Whether your goal is pain relief, better mobility, or preventing long-term complications, we provide clear answers, evidence-based treatment, and ongoing support. You don’t have to live with foot pain—real solutions are available.

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