Having flat feet can make things difficult when it comes being active and exercising in Georgia. However, having flat feet does not necessarily have to slow you down! Our beautiful Marietta, Georgia is filled with scenic parks (Kennesaw Mountain, Chatham Hill, Pigeon Hill, Sope Creek, Pigeon Hill), an active fitness community, and multiple recreational opportunities. There are also multiple beautiful trails nearby in Acworth Georgia, such as Allatoona Creek Park, Overlook Park, and Logan Farm Park. Heel pain and foot pain from flat feet should not slow you down!
Flat feet (fallen arches) occur when the arches of the feet either fail to form from birth, or collapse over time. Flat feet can cause foot discomfort, foot instability, heel pain, and plethora of other foot and ankle problems. Your Podiatrist can offer options for proper foot care and beneficial foot and ankle exercises.
Low-impact exercises are gentle on the feet, while simultaneously allowing a cardiovascular workout. Walking, swimming, cycling and using elliptical machines are excellent options for individuals with flat feet. Marietta, Acworth, and Kennesaw have multiple parks and trails, such as Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, where you can enjoy scenic walks or bike rides at your own pace!
Building muscles of the feet and ankles is very important for patients with flat feet. Performing strength training exercises helps stabilize and support the arches of the feet. Some examples of these exercises are calf raises, toe curls, and ankle range-of-motion exercises. On a rainy day, there are multiple options in Marietta and Kennesaw, such as fitness centers and gyms that have equipment for your strength training needs. Yoga and Pilates classes in Marietta can be excellent options to improve flexibility and strengthen the muscles in your feet while enhancing your overall well-being.
Your Podiatrist (foot doctor) can help you pick our proper supportive shoes, which are important for flat feet. Shoes with good arch support, stability, and cushioning might be very important. Our podiatrists in Marietta/Kennesaw can make custom orthotics (shoe inserts) to provide support and proper alignment for your feet.
If you are new to exercising, it is important to slowly progress and ease into longer exercises. If you go too hard too soon, overuse injuries or problems with existing foot pain can worsen.
Living with flat feet should not prevent you from being active lifestyle in Marietta, Georgia. With the right exercises, proper footwear, and a gradual approach, you can enjoy the beauty of this city while maintaining your fitness goals!
