Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is partially or completely flattened or fails to develop properly. While flat feet are common in infants and young children, the condition may persist into adulthood if the arch never fully forms. In adults, flatfoot can also develop later in life due to injury, age-related changes, pregnancy, obesity, or underlying health conditions. Individuals with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes may have an increased risk of developing flat feet.
If you suspect you have flat feet, a foot and ankle specialist or healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation. During the examination, the appearance and function of the feet may be assessed while sitting, standing, and walking. Diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, may be recommended to determine the severity of the condition and evaluate the structure of the foot. Common signs of flatfoot include outward drifting of the toes and forefoot, a shortened Achilles tendon, and a heel that tilts outward while the ankle rolls inward.
Once flatfoot has been identified, a variety of treatment options may be considered based on the severity of the condition and the presence of symptoms. Flat feet may be classified as either rigid or flexible. With rigid flatfoot, the arch remains absent regardless of whether weight is placed on the foot. With flexible flatfoot, an arch may be visible when sitting or non-weight-bearing but disappears when standing. Individuals with flexible flatfoot may benefit from reducing activities that cause discomfort, limiting prolonged standing or walking, and incorporating supportive footwear or orthotics. Weight management may also be recommended when excess body weight contributes to increased strain on the arches.
In more severe cases, additional treatment options may be necessary if conservative measures fail to provide relief. Surgical intervention may be considered when pain, instability, or functional limitations significantly affect daily activities. However, surgery is typically reserved for cases that do not respond to non-surgical treatments due to the recovery time and complexity involved.
