Flat Feet & High Arches

Flat Feet and High Arches: Understanding Foot Structure and Function

Our feet play a vital role in how we move, balance, and absorb impact. However, variations in foot structure, such as flat feet or high arches, can affect how forces are distributed during walking or running. Over time, these imbalances may lead to pain in the feet, ankles, knees, hips, or even the lower back.

At Rehab8, our chiropody team provides expert assessment and care for individuals with flat feet or high arches. Through gait analysis, orthotic therapy, and footwear guidance, we help restore comfort, balance, and alignment to support healthy movement.

1. What are flat feet and high arches?

Flat feet, also known as pes planus, occur when the arches of the feet collapse or are lower than normal, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. This can lead to overpronation, where the ankles roll inward during walking.

High arches, or pes cavus, occur when the arches are unusually elevated. This can cause excessive pressure on the heel and ball of the foot, leading to discomfort and instability.

Both conditions can be present from birth or develop over time due to changes in muscle strength, aging, injury, or medical conditions.
‍

2. Common causes and symptoms

While flat feet and high arches are opposite conditions, they can both cause pain, fatigue, and biomechanical issues that affect overall posture and gait.

Flat Feet Symptoms and Causes

• Pain or tenderness in the arch, heel, or ankle
• Feet that tire easily after standing or walking
• Overpronation (rolling inward) of the ankles
• Poor shock absorption
• Footwear wearing unevenly on the inside edges
• Can be caused by genetics, weak muscles, or prolonged standing
  ‍

High Arches Symptoms and Causes

• Pain under the ball or heel of the foot
• Calluses under the toes or metatarsals
• Instability or frequent ankle sprains
• Excess pressure on forefoot and heel
• May be caused by genetics, neurological conditions, or rigid foot structure

Without proper support, both flat feet and high arches can contribute to secondary problems such as shin splints, plantar fasciitis, knee pain, or back discomfort.

3. How chiropody can help

Chiropody focuses on identifying and managing structural and biomechanical issues in the feet to promote comfort and healthy movement. At Rehab8, our chiropodists provide a thorough assessment and treatment plan tailored to your foot type and lifestyle.

Comprehensive Foot and Gait Assessment

We analyze how your feet move during walking and standing to identify pressure points and alignment issues.

Custom Orthotics

Custom orthotics are often recommended to provide support, redistribute pressure, and improve balance for both flat feet and high arches.

Footwear Advice

We help you choose supportive, properly fitted shoes that enhance comfort and reduce strain.

Manual Therapy and Taping

Hands-on techniques, soft tissue therapy, and taping can relieve tension in the plantar fascia and reduce inflammation.

Stretching and Strengthening Exercises

Targeted exercises can improve arch function, flexibility, and muscle balance in the feet and lower legs.

Education and Prevention

We teach practical strategies for maintaining healthy foot mechanics and preventing future pain or injury.

Takeaway

Flat feet and high arches can both impact comfort and movement, but with the right care and support, long-term relief is possible. At Rehab8, our chiropody team combines detailed assessment, orthotic solutions, and education to help you move with balance and confidence every day.