Q: What are flat feet?

Flat feet, also known as pes planus or fallen arches, is a deformity where your feet have little-to-no arch in the sole. As such, people with flat feet have the entire sole of their foot coming into complete or near-complete contact with the ground.

Q: What causes flat feet?

Genetics can play a role in having flat feet. Notably, all babies have flat feet, but some won’t ever develop normal arches, thus leading to flat feet in adulthood. In some cases, flat feet can form after your arches have formed naturally. This can happen due to injuries like foot fractures, or diseases and conditions such as arthritis, diabetes-related nerve damage, and chronic tendonitis.

Q: How to tell if you have flat feet?

While standing, check the inner sides of your feet. If your feet are flat on the ground, then you have flat feet. If the inside part of your foot is raised off the ground while you’re standing, then you do not have flat feet. Another simple way to tell if you have flat feet is by doing a “wet test”. Wet your feet, then step on a piece of paper or cardboard. A footprint that shows the entire outline of your foot, with little to no curve on the inside, is indicative of flat feet.

Q: Are flat feet healthy?

Although flat feet aren’t inherently unhealthy, people with flat feet may be more prone to foot pain after walking or exercise. They may also suffer from ankle pain and instability, chronic pain even when not in movement, and pain in the lower back, knees, or hips.

Q: How to fix flat feet?

Most people do not require treatment for flat fleet, especially if they don’t experience any symptoms. If you occasionally suffer from mild aches and pain from flat feet, you can try conservative treatment such as physical therapy, orthotics, and over-the-counter medication. You can also try some exercises at home, like toe spreads, heel raises, and stretches.