flat feet

Flat feet, also known as pes planus, is a condition where the arch of the foot is very low, or collapsed, and contacts the ground when weight bearing. When you are sitting, or not weight bearing, your foot will still appear to be flat - and this differentiates true flat feet from other foot conditions.

Usually this is a congenital condition, which means that you were born with it -- so you have your parents to thank (or blame!) However, you may also develop a flat foot later in life - this is known as adult acquired flat foot, and is usually due to weakness in your tendons and muscles that occurs as you age.

Is Having Flat Feet A Bad Thing?

Not necessarily, and the good news is that if you would like to join the army, there are no exclusions for flat feet anymore. Flat feet are only a problem if you have pain, or you feel you are unable to do the things you would like to do.

In some ways, a flat foot can be quite a stable foot - it won't move much as it is planted firmly on the ground & this can reduce your chance of foot problems. However, you are more likely to get postural issues, like lower back pain, hip pain and even knee pain. Foot problems we commonly see in people with flat feet are Plantar Fasciitis, Achilles Tendonitis and Tibialis Posterior Tendonitis, as well as tired, aching legs and feet.

If you are experiencing foot problems and you feel you have a flat foot, contact us today. Our Podiatrists are experienced in treating people with flat feet and there are many treatment options available to suit you and your lifestyle.