Avoid Stretching When You Have Acute Foot Pain: MD Podiatrist

Telltale signs of flat feet are a lack of an arch and a wide footbed, both of which can make you more susceptible to pain. “They can occur from your genetics or from years of overuse in unsupportive shoes or from an abnormal gait, for example,” says Dan Michaels, DPM. But one way to prevent or alleviate foot pain is by performing stretches for flat feet.
 
“Since the pain from flat feet can be due to an imbalance and soreness within the many muscles and tendons of the feet, it can often help to stretch these sore muscles or build up muscles that can help rebalance the foot,” says Dr. Michaels. He also offers this caveat: “It is my opinion that if you are in acute or severe foot pain, you should avoid stretching the feet and stay as immobile as possible until your body has had a chance to calm down the inflammation a bit naturally.” In this case, it’s best to consult a doctor before beginning any type of intervention, even stretching, to ensure you’re not inadvertently causing more pain or damage.