Flat feet (also known as pes planus, flatfoot, fallen arches, collapsed arches to name a few) is a term used to describe when the arch of the foot is reduced or completely flat. What a lot of people don’t realise is that it is usually NOT a medical condition.
Flatfoot is usually congenital (you are born with it) and in many cases causes no problems.
Types of flatfoot
- Painless Flexible Flatfoot – usually does not require treatment
- Painful Flexible Flatfoot – requires treatment
- Nonflexible (rigid) Flatfoot – due to a congenital medical condition, requires treatment
- Acquired Flatfoot – due to a medical condition that develops during adulthood – requires treatment
What can be done?
- Footwear shoes that are supportive through the heel and mid-foot can help
- Stimulating insoles we can measure and fit Posture Control Insoles that help stimulate and strengthen the arch muscles of the foot and improve whole body posture.
- Treatment Osteopathic treatment can help reduce muscle tension, improve joint motion and restore correct biomechanics.
- Exercises we can prescribe exercises that help improve the specific causes of your pain.