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Problem foot types
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We asked Davis podiatrist Tracy Basso to break down the two types of feet most susceptible to problems and how to address them.
Flat feet
What it is: The arch of the instep is flattened and the entire sole touches the ground.
Possible problems: Pronation (rolling in of foot), weak ankles, bunions, hammertoes, neuroma, plantar fasciitis.
Possible solutions: "It's very important they be properly fit with good arch support," Basso says. "When I say arch support, I don't always mean an orthotic. Sometimes, a nonprescription (foam) arch can work. The problem is, when they stand, the foot becomes very floppy and they don't have rigidity. As they bear weight on that foot, it tends to spread out."
High arch
What it is: An excessively raised arch, which runs from the toes to the heel.
Possible problems: More stress is placed on the section between the ankle and the toes. Pain; corns and callouses; supination; higher chance of ankle sprains.
Possible solutions: "They tend to have problems on top of their feet because there's not enough material in their shoe to go over the top of the foot. It'll bind at the top too tightly. So look for a roomier shoe. They don't need a maximum control shoe, but some patients can have a high arch and still be pronated."
— Sacramento Bee.
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