Warning-sign checks
Flat feet: when to get help
Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911Get emergency help if the foot becomes suddenly cold, pale or blue, or if there is new major numbness or weakness.
These symptoms are not typical of flat feet and may indicate a problem with blood flow or nerves.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
- Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
- Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
- Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
- Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
- Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
- Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
- Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
- Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen todaySeek urgent medical assessment after an injury if you cannot bear weight, the foot looks deformed or pain and swelling are severe.
A hot, red, rapidly swelling foot with fever also needs urgent assessment, particularly if you have diabetes, reduced immunity or a wound.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointmentArrange a routine appointment if:
- Foot or ankle pain lasts more than a few weeks
- Pain keeps returning or limits walking, work, sleep or exercise
- One arch is newly lower than the other
- The foot is becoming stiffer or changing shape
- There is swelling or tenderness along the inner ankle
- A child has pain, stiffness, frequent falls or one-sided flatness
- You have diabetes and develop a new foot problem
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Flat feet. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.