Item: Leading Edge Podiatry
Rating: 5
Author: Morgans Car Channel

Flat Feet

WHAT ARE FLAT FEET?

Flat feet (also known as pes planus or fallen arches) occur when the arches on the inside of the feet flatten or collapse, causing the entire sole of the foot to make contact with the ground.

This condition affects up to 30% of the population, though not everyone will experience symptoms. While most cases affect both feet, it’s also possible to have a flat arch in just one foot. Flat feet can develop:

During early childhood (when arches fail to form)
After injury or trauma
Due to age-related wear and tear
As a result of muscle weakness or ligament laxity

Flat Feet in Children – Is It Normal?

Yes — it is completely normal for young children (ages 1–5) to appear flat-footed. Babies are born with fatty padding in the arch area, which naturally flattens the foot and improves balance while learning to walk.

As children grow:

Around 95% will develop a visible arch by the age of 6–10
Roughly 5% retain flat feet, but only a small percentage of these go on to experience foot pain in adulthood

While most children with flat feet don’t require treatment, persistent pain or poor posture may indicate a need for professional assessment.

Common Symptoms of Flat Feet

Some people with flat feet have no discomfort, but others may experience:

Pain or aching in the arch, heel, or ankle
Overpronation (excessive inward rolling of the foot during walking or running)
Fatigue or discomfort in the feet and legs after standing or physical activity
Postural issues such as knee, hip, or lower back pain

How We Treat Flat Feet

At Leading Edge Podiatry, we focus on reducing pain, improving function, and preventing long-term complications through a tailored treatment plan. Depending on your symptoms and foot mechanics, treatment may include:

1. Custom Orthotics

Orthotics are prescription devices that help support the arch, improve alignment, and redistribute pressure across the foot. They are especially beneficial for those experiencing pain or postural changes due to flat feet.

2. Stretching & Strengthening

Tight calf muscles and weak intrinsic foot muscles can worsen flat foot symptoms. We prescribe targeted stretching and strengthening exercises to improve muscle function and foot support.

3. Footwear Advice

Supportive, structured shoes are essential for managing flat feet. We’ll help you choose footwear with adequate arch support and heel stability to reduce strain on your joints.

4. Gait & Biomechanical Assessment

We assess how your feet move during walking and standing to determine whether overpronation or poor mechanics are contributing to pain or fatigue.

Let’s Get You Back on Your Feet

If flat feet are causing discomfort, affecting your mobility, or contributing to other issues like shin splints, knee pain or plantar fasciitis, it’s time to see a podiatrist.

👉 Book Online Now
📞 Or call us on 08 7120 6063 to speak with our experienced podiatry team.