Flat feet refers to a condition where the arch of the foot collapses, so that all or most of the sole of the foot makes contact with the ground when standing or walking. It can occur in one or both feet.
Flat feet will not necessarily cause symptoms. For example, if a person works in a sedentary job or is fairly inactive, they may not notice any symptoms caused by flat feet. Or, a person with flat feet may find that don’t participate in as many activities as they would like, because of the pain they experience when they do. But flat feet is a treatable condition, so if flat feet are holding you back from enjoying an active lifestyle, see your podiatrist for further assessment and advice.
Flat feet can also be a factor in the development of other problems such as heel pain (plantar fasciitis), bunions, knee pain, back pain and arthritis.
Flat feet may be apparent in childhood, or may not develop until later in life.
