Flat feet are common, and many people go through life without any problem. For others, a low arch contributes to foot pain, tiredness and trouble elsewhere in the legs. This guide explains what flat feet are, how to recognize them, and what people try.
What are flat feet?
Flat feet, also called fallen arches, describe a foot in which the arch has partly or completely collapsed so that much of the sole touches the ground. Some people have flat feet from childhood, while in others the arch lowers over time because of injury, wear in the tendon that supports the arch, muscle imbalance or arthritis.
Flat feet can alter how force travels through the body and may be associated with problems such as Achilles tendinitis, bunions and hammertoes.
What are the signs of flat feet?
A simple check is to stand on a wet floor or a piece of paper and look at the footprint. If it shows nearly the whole sole, the arch is low. Other signs include:
- Aching or tiredness in the arch or heel
- Pain on the inside of the ankle
- Swelling along the inner ankle
- Feet that roll inward when walking
- Shoes that wear down on the inner edge
- Pain in the knees, hips or lower back
Flat feet that cause no pain generally need no treatment.
What causes flat feet?
Common causes and contributors include inherited foot shape, injury, arthritis, obesity, pregnancy, aging, diabetes, and weakness of the tendon that supports the arch. In children, many flat feet are flexible and an arch appears when the child stands on tiptoe or sits.
What is the treatment for flat feet?
When flat feet cause symptoms, people commonly try supportive shoes, over-the-counter arch supports, calf stretching and foot-strengthening exercises, ice after activity, and sensible activity changes.
Podiatrists commonly describe custom orthotics, physical therapy, braces and anti-inflammatory approaches. Surgery is considered only for severe or painful cases that have not responded to conservative care.
Consider seeing a podiatrist if the arch seems to be changing in adulthood, one foot is flattening more than the other, or pain interferes with daily activity. A child with painful or rigid flat feet should also be evaluated.
This guide is general information from an independent publication. It is not medical advice and does not replace an examination by a licensed podiatrist or physician.