Flatfeet

You probably don't give much thought to the steps you take. However, walking is actually quite a complex act, especially for your feet. Because your feet support all of your weight and help you balance when you stand, they're subject to substantial pressure and risk of injury.

Screening and diagnosis

Your doctor will discuss your medical history and examine your feet. As part of the examination, your doctor will observe your feet from the front and the back and ask you to stand on your toes so he or she can view the mechanics of your feet.

To view the interior structure and bones of your foot, your doctor may request an imaging test of your foot, which may include an X-ray, a computerized tomography (CT) scan or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan.

Complications

Flatfeet may contribute to or worsen other foot problems, including:

• Inflammation and pain in the ligaments in the soles of your feet (plantar fasciitis)

• Achilles and posterior tibial tendinitis

• Shin splints

• Stress fractures in your lower leg

• Bunions

• Calluses

Because flatfeet affect your body's alignment, they may also lead to pain in your ankles, knees and hips.