What are flat feet?
Flat feet, also known as pes planus or fallen arches, occur when the arches of the foot have little to no height.
What are flat feet?
Flat feet, also known as pes planus or fallen arches, occur when the arches of the foot have little to no height. This makes the entire sole of the foot touch the ground when standing.
Flatfeet can occur when the arches don’t develop during childhood. It can also develop later in life after an injury or from the simple wear-and-tear stresses of age.
Not all flat feet require treatment. If you have no pain or discomfort, treatment may not be necessary. However, if you experience symptoms, consult a doctor, our physiotherapists, or our podiatrists for proper diagnosis and advice.
Healthcare memberships
What are the symptoms?
Foot pain, especially in the arch, heel, or ankle
especially in the arch, heel, or ankle
Fatigue
in the legs after standing or walking
Difficulty balancing
Shoes wearing out unevenly
we’re here to all your questions
Fort Healthcare is the leading Allied Health Clinic in Sydney. We provides comprehensive services of physiotherapy, psychology, occupational therapy, chiropractic, exercise physiology, dietetic, podiatry, speech pathology, remedial massage, pelvic floor physiotherapy, neuropsychology, acupuncture and so on.
What causes flat feet?
Congenital: Some people are born with flat feet due to bone or ligament abnormalities.
Acquired: Flat feet can develop later in life due to injury, obesity, aging, or certain diseases like arthritis.
Flexible flat feet: These feet appear flat while standing but show an arch when the toes are lifted.
Rigid flat feet: These feet have no arch regardless of foot position.
How can Flat Feet be treated?
Orthotics: Custom-made shoe inserts by Fort Healthcare Podiatrists can support the arch and relieve pain.
Stretching and strengthening exercises: Specific exercises prescribed by Fort Healthcare Physiotherapists can improve flexibility and stability in the foot and ankle.
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter medication can help manage pain.
Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be recommended to correct severe structural problems.
When should I seek for the treatments?
Not all flat feet require treatment. If you have no pain or discomfort, treatment may not be necessary. However, if you experience symptoms, consult a doctor or our podiatrists for proper diagnosis and advice.
Need more information?
These trusted information partners have more on this topic.
Health Direct:
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/flat-feet
Mayo clinic:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/flatfeet/symptoms-causes/syc-20372604