Do you experience persistent pain in your knees, hips, or lower back but can’t find the cause? It might surprise you to learn that the root of your discomfort could start with your feet—specifically, flat feet.

At Professional Podiatry Services of New York, Dr. Jason Snyder and his team understand how the biomechanics of your feet influence the alignment and function of your entire body. Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, don’t just affect your feet—they can trigger a chain reaction leading to pain and dysfunction higher up in your body.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flat feet occur when the arches of your feet collapse or fail to develop fully, causing your entire foot sole to touch the ground when standing. While some people with flat feet experience no symptoms, others can develop pain and complications due to improper foot mechanics.

How Flat Feet Affect Your Knees, Hips, and Back

Your feet serve as the foundation for your body. When the arches collapse, your feet roll inward excessively—a condition called overpronation. This alters your gait and puts extra strain on your lower limbs and spine, leading to:

• Knee Pain: Overpronation causes the knees to rotate inward abnormally, stressing the ligaments and cartilage. This can increase the risk of conditions such as patellofemoral pain syndrome and osteoarthritis.
• Hip Discomfort: The abnormal rotation at the knees affects the alignment of the hips, which may lead to muscle imbalances, joint inflammation, and hip pain.
• Lower Back Pain: Changes in foot posture influence pelvic tilt and spinal alignment. This can result in increased pressure on the lumbar spine and muscles, causing chronic lower back pain.

Solutions to Manage Flat Feet and Related Pain

The good news is that flat feet and their related symptoms can be effectively managed with proper care:

1. Custom Orthotics - Dr. Snyder offers personalized custom orthotics designed to support your arches and correct overpronation. These devices redistribute pressure evenly and improve alignment, reducing strain on your knees, hips, and back.
2. Physical Therapy and Exercises - Targeted exercises to strengthen your foot muscles and improve flexibility can help restore your arches and improve overall biomechanics.
3. Proper Footwear - Supportive shoes with good arch support and cushioning are essential. Dr. Snyder can recommend footwear that suits your foot structure and lifestyle.
4. Minimally Invasive Treatments and Surgery - In severe cases where conservative treatments fail, advanced minimally invasive procedures can correct structural abnormalities in the foot to restore function and alleviate pain.

When to See a Podiatrist

If you suffer from persistent knee, hip, or back pain alongside flat feet or notice symptoms like foot fatigue, swelling, or difficulty standing for long periods, it’s time to get a professional evaluation. Early intervention can prevent worsening pain and long-term damage.

Get Back on Your Feet with Expert Care in Brooklyn

Dr. Jason Snyder and the team at Professional Podiatry Services of New York are dedicated to improving your mobility and quality of life. Using the latest technology and a compassionate approach, we create personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs.

📞 Call us today at (718) 331-1100 or visit us at 1501 W 6th St Suite 1A, Brooklyn, NY 11204 to schedule your consultation. Take the first step toward pain-free movement and better foot health!