Flat Feet Treatment in Miami, Surfside, FL

Flat Feet Treatment in Miami, Surfside, FL

What Are Flat Feet?

Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to come into contact with the ground. This condition can develop over time or be present from birth. Some of the root causes of flat feet include genetics, improper footwear, and muscle imbalances. Additionally, certain health conditions, such as diabetes, can increase the risk of developing flat feet by damaging the nerves and muscles that support the arch. Injuries to the foot or ankle—such as fractures, ligament tears, or tendon damage—can also weaken the structural support of the foot, contributing to arch collapse.

Symptoms of Flat Feet

Heel Pain
Flat feet can place excessive strain on the heel, leading to persistent discomfort or sharp pain during walking or standing. This occurs when the lack of arch support causes the heel to absorb more impact than it should, often resulting in inflammation or irritation in the heel area.
Individuals with flat feet often experience pain along the inner part of the foot where the arch should naturally rise. With fallen arches, the structural support is weakened, placing more stress on the muscles and ligaments in this area. This can lead to aching or throbbing pain, especially after physical activity.
Flat feet can contribute to ankle pain due to the inward rolling of the ankles, a condition known as overpronation. This misalignment can strain the tendons and ligaments surrounding the ankle, resulting in discomfort, instability, or an increased risk of sprains.
Individuals with flat feet often report that their feet become tired quickly, especially after prolonged periods of standing or walking. The absence of proper arch support means the muscles in the feet must work harder, resulting in foot fatigue or a sensation of heaviness.
The misalignment caused by flat feet can affect the entire lower body, increasing the likelihood of knee, hip, and leg pain. Improper foot mechanics can disrupt joint alignment and lead to uneven pressure distribution, potentially contributing to chronic pain in these areas.
Flat feet may alter weight distribution across the foot, resulting in increased friction and pressure in specific areas. This often leads to the formation of calluses or bunions, especially near the base of the big toe, as the foot compensates for the lack of arch support.
Without the natural arch to help distribute weight and absorb shock, individuals with flat feet may struggle with balance and stability. This can make it harder to walk on uneven surfaces or perform activities that require coordination.
Flat feet often result in an altered gait or walking pattern. People may overpronate or walk with an uneven stride, which can contribute to muscle fatigue, joint strain, and increased risk of injury over time.

Your Initial Appointment

Preparation for flat foot treatment begins with a comprehensive consultation, during which Dr. Curson conducts a physical examination and reviews the medical history to identify underlying causes, such as injuries or conditions like diabetes. Imaging studies may be used to support an accurate diagnosis and rule out other structural issues. Proper preparation also includes evaluating gait, posture, and footwear habits to develop a customized treatment plan that may involve orthotics, physical therapy, or lifestyle modifications.

Our Treatments for Flat Feet

MLS Laser Therapy
MLS laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses targeted light energy to reduce inflammation and stimulate healing in the affected area. This therapy is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing chronic pain or tissue damage due to flat feet, as it helps improve circulation, reduce swelling, and accelerate recovery without the need for medication or surgery.
Soundwave therapy, also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), uses acoustic waves to stimulate the body’s natural healing process. This treatment helps alleviate pain by increasing blood flow and promoting tissue regeneration in strained or damaged areas of the foot, making it especially useful for persistent arch or heel discomfort associated with flat feet.
Custom orthotics provide an effective treatment option for flat feet by offering personalized support that corrects foot alignment and enhances overall biomechanics. These inserts are designed to relieve pressure on the arches and redistribute weight evenly, helping to reduce pain and fatigue during daily activities.
For severe cases of flat feet that do not respond to conservative therapies, surgical intervention may be recommended. Our podiatrist, Dr. Curson, carefully evaluates each patient to determine the most appropriate surgical approach, whether it involves tendon repair, bone realignment, or arch reconstruction, to restore function and long-term comfort.
Sports medicine services for flat feet involve comprehensive care that addresses both the symptoms and the physical demands of an active lifestyle. The focus is on preventing injury, improving performance, and managing pain through customized recovery programs, stretching routines, and activity-specific recommendations tailored to each patient’s needs.

Recovery After Flat Feet Treatment

The recovery process following flat foot treatment depends on the method used, but generally involves a period of rest, rehabilitation, and a gradual return to activity. Whether the approach is non-invasive or surgical, proper aftercare is crucial for minimizing inflammation, preventing complications, and promoting long-term foot health.
Key aspects of recovery include:

  • Allowing time for rest to reduce swelling and support tissue healing.
  • Monitoring for signs of infection, especially after surgical procedures.
  • Using anti-inflammatory methods or medications as advised to manage pain and inflammation.
  • Maintaining proper foot alignment with custom orthotics or supportive footwear.
  • Following a structured training or physical therapy program to rebuild strength and flexibility.
  • Adopting healthy habits that lead to improved foot function and overall well-being.

Candidates for Flat Feet Treatment

Certain individuals are more likely to require medical attention for flat feet based on their physical condition, lifestyle demands, or underlying health concerns. Identifying appropriate candidates helps ensure targeted and effective treatment planning. The following groups typically benefit from our professional treatments:

Benefits of Flat Feet Treatment

Flat feet can contribute to a wide range of complications if left untreated, especially when structural imbalances begin to affect other areas of the body. Addressing the underlying issues through proper care may help prevent long-term damage and improve overall function. Our patients can expect the following benefits:
  • Reduced pain and strain in the lower limbs
  • Improved alignment of the knees, hips, and spine
  • Prevention of related foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis
  • Lower risk of skin problems like ingrown toenails
  • Decreased stress on the Achilles tendon
  • Protection against joint deterioration caused by arthritis
  • Lower likelihood of injury from trauma or instability
  • Consistent, personalized care based on individual foot structure
  • Enhanced comfort, mobility, and overall quality of life

Cost of Flat Feet Treatment in Surfside, Miami

The cost of flat foot treatment in Miami ranges from $100 to $3,000, depending on the type and complexity of care required. Non-invasive options, such as orthotics and physical therapy, tend to be more affordable, while surgical procedures can be significantly more expensive. To determine the most appropriate approach and obtain a detailed estimate, patients are encouraged to consult Dr. Curson, who offers personalized evaluations tailored to each individual’s needs.

What Makes Our Foot and Ankle Care Different From Others?

What sets our foot and ankle care apart is the expertise of Dr. Curson, a second-generation podiatrist with more than 40 years of experience. Our doctor combines deep knowledge with advanced techniques to treat a wide range of foot and ankle conditions with precision and compassion. We are committed to delivering the highest quality care in every case, and we’re grateful for the trust our patients place in us.
Dr. Curson Banner

FAQs

Does our podiatry office offer same-day appointments?
Yes, our office does offer same-day appointments whenever possible to assist those in need of prompt care. We understand the importance of convenience and make every effort to ensure that each person receives timely attention, especially when discomfort or injury arises unexpectedly.
Absolutely. We welcome patients from surrounding areas near Surfside and are happy to accommodate those seeking foot and ankle care. To learn more about scheduling or treatment options, patients are encouraged to speak with Dr. Curson for personalized guidance.
While flat feet alone do not require amputation, leaving them untreated—especially in individuals with underlying conditions like diabetes—may lead to serious complications. Over time, poor foot mechanics can contribute to ulcers, infections, or vascular issues, which increase the risk of severe outcomes if not properly managed.