How is flat feet treated?

Flat feet, also called fallen arches, describe the shape of the foot when the arch lowers during standing. Many people have this shape without pain or limitation. Treatment becomes relevant when the foot, ankle, knee or lower leg becomes painful, tired or less stable, or when a previously normal arch changes noticeably.

An assessment looks at walking, standing alignment, footwear, flexibility and strength. Foot pain may also come from conditions such as plantar fasciitis, shin splints or patellofemoral pain syndrome, so the treatment should match the actual source of symptoms.

Choose comfortable shoes with enough room and support, and build up walking or sports loads gradually. Custom orthotics may improve how pressure is distributed through the foot for some people; they should complement, not replace, movement and strengthening when those are needed.

Exercise therapy can target the calf, foot and hip muscles, while physiotherapy can refine balance, walking mechanics and activity progression. A clinician may suggest a period of conservative care before considering any specialist intervention.

Arrange an assessment for persistent foot pain, repeated ankle sprains, difficulty walking, one-sided arch change or symptoms that limit sport or work. Seek prompt care after an injury with marked swelling, inability to bear weight, numbness, colour change or a suddenly collapsed arch.

Are my flat feet contributing to my symptoms? Would custom orthotics or exercise therapy help my movement? Which footwear and activities should I change, and how should I progress back to normal?