Flat Feet & Flat Foot Deformity

Conditions We Treat

Flat Feet & Flat Foot Deformity

Flat feet, also known as pes planus or flat foot deformity, occur when the natural arch of the foot is lowered or collapses, allowing most or all of the foot to come into contact with the ground. Some people are born with flat feet and never experience symptoms, while others develop pain, fatigue, or changes in the way they walk over time.

Flat feet can affect both children and adults. In children, arches normally develop during the early years of life, although some children continue to have flexible flat feet without problems. In adults, arches may gradually fall because of tendon weakness, ligament strain, arthritis, injury, aging, or other conditions affecting the foot.

Causes of Flat Feet

There are several possible causes and contributing factors, including:

Genetics
Aging
Obesity
Pregnancy
Arthritis
Foot or ankle injuries
Tendon weakness or damage
Diabetes
Neurological or muscular conditions

Adult-acquired flat feet may also develop when the posterior tibial tendon, which helps support the arch, becomes weakened, inflamed, or damaged.

Different Types of Flat Feet

Not all flat feet are the same. A podiatrist can determine which type you have and whether treatment is necessary.

Symptoms of Flat Feet

Many people with flat feet have no symptoms. When problems do occur, they may include:

Pain in the arch or heel
Pain along the inside of the ankle
Foot or leg fatigue
Ankle discomfort
Foot stiffness
Changes in walking or gait
Feet rolling inward
Uneven shoe wear
Toe drift
Balance problems
Difficulty standing or walking for extended periods

As the condition progresses, changes in foot alignment may place additional stress on the ankles, knees, hips, and lower back.

Diagnosing and Treating Flat Feet

A podiatric evaluation can determine the type and severity of flat foot deformity. Your podiatrist may examine your feet while sitting, standing, and walking and evaluate your joint motion, muscle strength, foot alignment, and walking pattern. X-rays or other imaging may also be recommended to evaluate the bones and joints.

Treatment depends on your symptoms and the severity of the condition. Many patients can be treated without surgery using custom orthotics, supportive footwear, braces, stretching and strengthening exercises, physical therapy, rest, ice, or anti-inflammatory medication when appropriate.

Custom orthotics can help support the arch, improve foot alignment, redistribute pressure, and reduce stress on the muscles, tendons, and joints. More advanced cases may require additional treatment when pain or deformity continues to progress.

When Should You See a Podiatrist?

If flat feet are causing pain, fatigue, difficulty walking, balance problems, or noticeable changes in the shape of your feet, schedule an evaluation with Godoy Foot & Ankle Center. Early treatment can help reduce discomfort, improve function, and prevent the deformity from becoming more severe.

Wayne Office

Oakland Office

Schedule An Appointment

To learn more about treatment options or schedule an appointment with Dr. Johanna Godoy, contact Godoy Foot & Ankle Center today.