What are flat feet?
Flat feet mean that the arch of the foot (the longitudinal or metatarsal arch) is low or completely sagging. This causes the foot to rest almost completely on the ground. Flat feet can be congenital or caused by muscle weakness, overuse or wear of the tendons and joints.
Complaints
Flat feet can lead to:
- Pain in feet, ankles, knees or lower back
- Foot fatigue from prolonged standing or walking
- Overuse of muscles and joints
- Difficulty with shoes and instability
What can a podiatrist do?
The podiatrist examines foot position and loading. Treatment options are:
- Orthotics or orthotics to support the arch of the foot
- Advice on shoes with good cushioning and support
- Exercises for foot muscles and postural correction
Recovery
Flatfoot rehabilitation focuses on pain reduction, improvement of foot function and stability. With proper insoles, shoes and exercises, the load on the feet and legs can be better distributed, reducing symptoms and making walking more comfortable.
