Understanding Flat Feet & High Arches
About Flat Feet & High Arches
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.
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.
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.
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.
Our
framework
Chiropody specializes in the assessment and treatment of foot and lower limb conditions to improve comfort, mobility, and overall foot health. From nail care and callus management to addressing foot pain, diabetic care, and custom orthotics, our foot care specialist provides comprehensive care tailored to your needs. By focusing on prevention, treatment, and education, chiropody helps keep you on your feet comfortably and confidently.
Biomechanical Analysis
- Focuses on the mechanics of the foot, ankle, and lower limb.
- Key concepts:
- Gait analysis: Examining heel strike, midstance, and toe-off.
- Foot posture assessment: Supination, pronation, arch height.
- Joint kinematics: Tibiofemoral and subtalar joint movement.
- Orthotic intervention: Corrective insoles to redistribute forces - typically recommended by a foot care specialist.
Tissue Evaluation
- Addresses the underlying tissue disorders causing pain or dysfunction.
- Includes:
- Soft tissue injuries: Plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy.
- Skin and nail disorders: Fungal infections, ingrown nails.
- Neurological conditions: Peripheral neuropathy, diabetic foot care.
- Vascular disorders: Peripheral arterial disease.
For personalized assessment and treatment, consulting the best chiropodist near North York can help ensure optimal care.
Activity-based Recovery
- Focuses on how foot and ankle conditions affect daily activities.
- Includes:
- Functional mobility assessment: Balance, walking, running.
- Activity modification: Footwear, activity load management.
- Return-to-activity planning: Especially in athletes, guided by a foot care specialist to restore function safely.
Why
choose us?
Your first session is a chance for us to get to know your body, understand its strengths and weaknesses, and identify any areas that need attention.
We design your session around your needs, goals, and lifestyle, combining manual therapy, modalities, and corrective exercises for optimal results.
We take a whole-body approach to your wellbeing, helping you feel better, move more freely, and enjoy a healthier, more active, and balanced life.
Got a question for us?
Check below to see if we have an answer for you. If you can’t find the information you’re looking for, please contact us and we’ll be happy to help.
While structural changes are often permanent, symptoms can be managed effectively through proper support, orthotics, and exercises that improve alignment and function.
Custom orthotics are highly beneficial for both conditions, as they provide individualized support and help prevent related pain in the feet, knees, or back.
Yes. Exercise is encouraged, but proper footwear and orthotic support are important to prevent strain or overuse injuries. A chiropodist can guide you on safe and effective activities.
Get started
today.
We're excited to meet you and help you recover!