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Flat Feet
Mild
Flat feet, or pes planus, occur when the arches of the feet are reduced or appear flattened when standing. Flat arches can be a normal variation, particularly in young children, and many people have no symptoms. In some individuals, changes in the arch can contribute to foot pain, ankle discomfort, altered walking mechanics, or problems higher in the legs. Flat feet may be flexible or associated with structural or tendon abnormalities.
Body System
Legs Knees & Feet
When to Seek Medical Attention
Flat feet are usually not an emergency, particularly when painless. Seek medical assessment when persistent pain, weakness, swelling, balance problems, or difficulty walking develops. Prompt evaluation is appropriate for sudden severe pain, inability to bear weight, or a significant change in foot shape or function.
Symptoms
2
Causes
2
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Flat feet, or pes planus, occur when the arches of the feet are reduced or appear flattened when standing. Flat arches can be a normal variation, particularly in young children, and many people have no symptoms. In some individuals, changes in the arch can contribute to foot pain, ankle discomfort, altered walking mechanics, or problems higher in the legs. Flat feet may be flexible or associated with structural or tendon abnormalities.
Symptoms 2
Frequent Hunger
Heel Pain
Causes 2
Flat feet may result from normal developmental variation, particularly because the foot arches may not fully develop during early childhood. In other people, the arches may become flatter because of ligament or tendon problems, injury, arthritis, obesity, aging, or structural differences in the bones and joints of the foot. Flexible flat feet maintain an arch when the foot is unloaded, whereas more rigid flattening may reflect an underlying structural condition.
Genetics
Obesity
Risk Factors
Many cases of flat feet are simply a normal anatomical variation. Risk of symptomatic or acquired flat feet may increase with age, obesity, injury, arthritis, tendon dysfunction, and certain neuromuscular or connective-tissue conditions. Family patterns and individual foot structure may also influence arch shape. Having flat arches alone does not necessarily indicate disease or predict future pain.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis is usually based on examination of the feet while sitting and standing and observation of walking mechanics. The clinician may assess whether an arch appears when the person stands on the toes, which can help distinguish flexible from more rigid flat feet. Imaging is often unnecessary when symptoms are mild and the examination is typical. X-rays or other imaging may be considered when there is persistent pain, stiffness, deformity, injury, or concern about an underlying structural disorder.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Flexible flat feet without symptoms generally do not require prevention
Maintaining a healthy body weight, wearing comfortable and appropriately supportive footwear when needed, staying physically active, and addressing injuries or conditions affecting the foot and ankle can support normal function
Children with persistent pain, stiffness, weakness, or unusual gait patterns should be evaluated rather than assuming that flat arches are simply a normal variation
Prevention Guidance
Flexible flat feet without symptoms generally do not require prevention. Maintaining a healthy body weight, wearing comfortable and appropriately supportive footwear when needed, staying physically active, and addressing injuries or conditions affecting the foot and ankle can support normal function. Children with persistent pain, stiffness, weakness, or unusual gait patterns should be evaluated rather than assuming that flat arches are simply a normal variation.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Calcium-rich Foods
Support foot bones
Protein-rich Foods
Support tissues
Fresh Vegetables
Provide nutrients
Foods to Avoid
Processed Foods
Limit intake
Excess Sugar
Limit intake
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
A condition where foot arches are reduced or absent.
Genetics, injury, and tendon problems.
Foot pain, fatigue, and walking discomfort.
Yes, arch supports may improve comfort.
Through foot examination.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.