Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, are conditions in which the arch of the foot collapses and the entire sole of the foot comes into contact with the ground. This can occur in one or both feet and can be either flexible (the arch appears when the foot is off the ground but disappears when the foot is on the ground) or rigid (the arch is always absent).

Flat feet can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life. Some people with flat feet may not experience any symptoms or problems, while others may experience pain, discomfort, or difficulty with activities that involve standing or walking for long periods of time.

Treatment for flat feet typically depends on the severity of the condition and the symptoms experienced. In mild cases, simple interventions such as arch supports or custom orthotics may be used to provide support and reduce discomfort. In more severe cases, physical therapy, stretching exercises, and specialized shoes may be recommended.

Surgery may also be an option for some people with flat feet, particularly if they are experiencing severe pain or difficulty with mobility. Surgical procedures for flat feet can involve reconstructing the arch of the foot or fusing bones in the foot to create a more stable and functional structure. However, surgery is generally considered a last resort and is only recommended in cases where other treatments have been ineffective.

A flat foot is normal in infants and toddlers, because the foot's arch hasn't yet developed. Most people's arches develop throughout childhood, but some people never develop arches. This is a normal variation in foot type, and people without arches may or may not have problems.

Some children have flexible flatfoot, in which the arch is visible when the child is sitting or standing on tiptoes, but disappears when the child stands. Most children outgrow flexible flatfoot without problems.

Arches can also fall over time. Years of wear and tear can weaken the tendon that runs along the inside of your ankle and helps support your arch.

No treatment is necessary for flatfeet if they don't cause pain.

Therapy

If your flatfeet are painful, your doctor might suggest:

• Arch supports (orthotic devices). Over-the-counter arch supports may help relieve the pain caused by flatfeet. Or your doctor might suggest custom-designed arch supports, which are molded to the contours of your feet. Arch supports won't cure flatfeet, but they often reduce symptoms.
• Stretching exercises. Some people with flatfeet also have a shortened Achilles tendon. Exercises to stretch this tendon may help.
• Supportive shoes. A structurally supportive shoe might be more comfortable than sandals or shoes with minimal support.
• Physical therapy. Flatfeet may contribute to overuse injuries in some runners. A physical therapist can do a video analysis of how you run to help you improve your form and technique.

Surgery

Surgery isn't done solely to correct flatfeet. However, you might have surgery for an associated problem, such as a tendon tear or rupture.