Understanding Flat Feet

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, are a common condition where the arches of the feet are lower than usual or completely flattened. For some people, flat feet cause no discomfort at all, while for others, they can lead to pain, fatigue, or problems that affect the ankles, knees, hips, and even the lower back. Understanding how and why flat feet occur is the first step toward finding the right ways to manage them.

What Are Flat Feet?

In a typical foot, the arch acts like a spring, absorbing shock and helping distribute weight evenly when you stand, walk, or run. In flat feet, the arch collapses or is absent, causing most of the foot’s sole to touch the ground.

Flat feet can be:

• Flexible: The arch appears when the foot is lifted but flattens when standing.
• Rigid: The arch remains flat whether weight is applied or not.

Common Causes

Flat feet can develop for several reasons, including:

• Genetic factors (present from childhood)
• Weakness or injury to the posterior tibial tendon
• Aging and natural tissue wear
• Arthritis or inflammatory conditions
• Overuse injuries
• Weight gain or pregnancy
• Improper footwear over time

Possible Symptoms

Not everyone with flat feet experiences pain, but when symptoms occur, they may include:

• Aching or fatigue in the feet or legs after standing or walking
• Swelling along the inside of the ankle
• Heel or arch pain
• Pain that worsens with activity
• Difficulty standing on tiptoe
• Uneven shoe wear

Over time, flat feet can contribute to changes in alignment, potentially leading to discomfort in the knees, hips, or lower back.

How Physiotherapy Can Help

Physiotherapy focuses on improving strength, mobility, and alignment throughout the lower body. For flat feet, a physiotherapist may use:

• Targeted strengthening exercises to support the arch and ankle stability (such as working the intrinsic foot muscles and calf complex)
• Stretching for tight structures like the Achilles tendon or calf muscles, which often contribute to arch collapse
• Manual therapy and soft tissue techniques to improve joint mobility and reduce tension
• Postural and gait retraining to correct movement patterns and improve balance during walking or running
• Education on footwear, activity modifications, and self-care strategies

These interventions aim to reduce discomfort, improve mechanics, and prevent further strain in the feet and legs.

How Chiropody Can Help

Chiropody focuses on the health, structure, and function of the feet. For those with flat feet, chiropodists provide assessment, treatment, and long-term management strategies, including:

• Footwear advice to ensure proper support and shock absorption
• Custom orthotics designed to redistribute pressure and support the arches
• Monitoring for secondary issues such as calluses, bunions, or heel pain that can result from altered biomechanics
• Education on maintaining healthy foot care and preventing complications

Chiropodists and physiotherapists often work together to address both the mechanical and functional aspects of flat feet, offering a comprehensive approach to maintaining comfort and mobility.

Living Well with Flat Feet

Most people with flat feet can lead active, pain-free lives with the right combination of supportive footwear, strength training, and professional guidance. Early assessment and personalized management can make a significant difference in preventing strain and promoting better movement.