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Flat Feet
Flat feet is a way of describing feet which have a low arch. This is very common and usually not a cause for concern.
Disclaimer: This is an informative guide only and is not a tool for diagnosis or a replacement for a consultation with a Podiatrist. If you are experiencing any symptoms arising from a flat foot posture, or you are worried about having flat feet, we recommend that you see your Podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate management plan. Referrals are not required to see a Podiatrist. The images used do not necessarily reflect the condition, symptoms or treatment being discussed and are intended for illustrative purposes only.
Understanding Flat Feet
Flat feet is a way of describing feet which have a low arch. This is very common and usually not a cause for concern.
Everyone’s feet are different. Some people have high arches, some have low arches, and most are somewhere in between. You might hear flat feet called fallen arches or by the medical term pes planus.
Flat feet are about how your feet look when you are standing still. This is different from pronation, which is the natural way your foot rolls inward when you walk or run. These two terms are not the same and should not be confused.
If you search online for “flat feet,” you might find lots of scary information. But don’t worry, many of those ideas are outdated. Having low arches can affect how your feet move and how your muscles work, but that is true for all foot shapes. Just like having wide or narrow feet, it is simply a variation.
Do Flat Feet Cause Problems?
Not necessarily. Many people with flat feet never have any issues. Others might feel pain or discomfort, but that can happen with any foot type.
If you do have pain in your feet or legs (regardless of foot shape), it is a good idea to see a podiatrist. They can check your feet and figure out what’s causing the pain. It might not be related to your arch height at all.
What Should You Do?
Don’t assume that flat feet will lead to problems. And if you don’t have any pain or symptoms don’t start treatments just because you think you should.
If you want expert advice, talk to a podiatrist. They are trained to assess and care for feet of all shapes and sizes.
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