Flat Feet

About Flat Feet

Flat feet can be present from childhood or develop over time (adult acquired flat foot). While some people with flat feet experience no symptoms, others may have pain in the feet, ankles, knees, or lower back. Flat feet can also contribute to overpronation, which affects the alignment of the entire lower body.

Common Symptoms

• Feet tire easily during activity
• Pain or aching in the arches, heels, or ankles
• Swelling along the inside of the ankle
• Difficulty standing on tiptoes
• Knee, hip, or lower back pain related to foot alignment

How We Can Help

Our chiropodists perform comprehensive biomechanical assessments to evaluate your foot structure, gait, and alignment. Treatment options include custom orthotics to provide arch support and correct alignment, stretching and strengthening exercises, footwear recommendations, and ongoing monitoring.

Do Flat Feet Always Need Treatment?

No — many people with flat feet have no symptoms and need no treatment at all. Treatment is recommended when flat feet cause problems: arch or heel pain, tired aching legs, knee or lower back pain, abnormal shoe wear, or difficulty with sports and prolonged standing. In children, flexible flat feet are often a normal stage of development, but persistent pain, tripping, or one foot flatter than the other should be assessed by a chiropodist.

How Custom Orthotics Help

Custom orthotics support the arch and realign the foot and ankle, reducing the strain that flat feet place on muscles, tendons, and joints up the leg. Unlike off-the-shelf insoles, they are made from a precise assessment of your feet and gait, correcting your specific mechanics. Most patients notice reduced fatigue and pain within weeks, especially when orthotics are combined with supportive footwear and strengthening exercises prescribed by your chiropodist.